Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In recent months the Joint Committee on Business, Enterprise and Innovation has been carrying out an extensive engagement with stakeholders on the cost of doing business. A common theme has emerged, with major concerns about the cost of insurance and rates. The committee also heard about the cost of credit and banking. The possible introduction of a public banking model similar to the Sparkasse banking model has been discussed. I ask the Taoiseach for his views on such a public banking model. A report is due to be issued shortly by the Departments of Finance and Rural and Community Development. Has the Taoiseach had any indication as to when the report might be published? Might the introduction of a public banking model be suggested?