Mr. Fergal O'Brien:

The availability of credit and finance issues is something IBEC has been tracking very closely recently, working with the Department. It publishes its data on a regular basis now, which is very useful. What we have observed is probably a varying take-up across the various schemes. Obviously, there are currently a range of schemes available, including Brexit-targeted schemes and Covid schemes. What we have found from our members in recent weeks is that there is very strong demand for longer-term loan funds, particularly the seven to ten year loan funds with lower interest rates and some flexibility around repayment terms. We are aware of the official numbers that have been published but we also understand that the pipeline is very active. On some of the credit schemes that are available, there is probably a need for a reallocation of resources and an increased allocation into credit financing generally in terms of Brexit supports. The take-up of some schemes has been low. It is important that we recognise there is varying take-up across the various schemes.