Mr. Tim Molan:

On micro-enterprises and small enterprises, it is important not only to talk about getting financial support but also the whole area of infrastructure and support for them. One of the most critical things that is needed is often practical assistance for the preparation and construction of business cases, which is something on which the committee or the other bodies present, such as our colleagues in Irish Rural Link and other areas, might focus some attention.

One of the other areas that might be useful to consider is the range of supports for enterprise that are delivered in most cases through the banking sector. Instances of this are found around the Border in preparation for Brexit and so on. All of these supports are delivered through the pillar banking system. Due to the sheer number of credit unions, it is easier to deliver the supports through smaller distribution mechanisms, as happens in the three or four pillar banks. They are areas to which additional engagement between the credit union movement as a whole, the Government and our colleagues in the communities could bring practical advancement, but there is definitely a need. People who start out in local and micro-enterprise are brave but greater support is needed for them. Although money is a big part of it, it is not the only thing they need. They also need pre-support, post-support and ongoing support.