Ollie Crowe (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Tánaiste and the Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Robert Troy, and their officials. I thank them for their presentation.

As public representatives we are all aware that there has been a fair bit of criticism in recent years to the effect that the ODCE lacked the necessary resources to most effectively carry out its role. I very much support this legislation and recognise the need for the corporate enforcement authority.

Will the Tánaiste speak to what sort of budget is envisaged to be made available to the authority to enable it to acquire the necessary resources to commence and hit the ground running? This has been mentioned by one or two other members. Is it anticipated that there will be a transition period during which more staff can be added? Is it possible to get more detail, if it is available?

My next question is about the review of the examinership process. Currently, small companies cannot avail of it. It is certainly true for businesses in Galway. My concern is that there is extraordinary pressure on businesses currently. The Tánaiste and the Minister of State will be well aware of this but what happens when Covid-19 supports end? It is imperative that we give certainty in respect of the Covid-19 supports. They have been helpful for the survival of many businesses, especially the business people I speak to in Galway city and county. My concern is that when the Covid supports stop or end, there will be major financial pressure on those businesses. Is a restructure available to them? Will the Tánaiste or the Minister of State comment on that?