Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Just taking up on Senator Ollie Crowe's point, has any sort of a quota been set for lending other than through the major retail banks?

Does the Department hope to provide developmental advice in the context of this lending? People are taking on the climate change challenge, looking to diversify their markets and introduce new technologies. There may be a role for combining lending with some developmental advice or access to programmes. Is the assessment of need entirely left to the bankers or is there any attempt by the Department to look at the context of viable and feasible development strategies?

Are there any loss expectations with this loan book or in the context of the guarantee? Is our exposure limited in all cases to the figure quoted of €29 million? We are entering a period of uncertainty. What happens if losses are worse?

Is the Department still doing the SME survey of attitudes to borrowing and lending, as well as the experience with lending institutions?

It used to be available and gave an insight into the needs and attitudes of borrowers as well as the needs and attitudes of lenders. It was useful for policy purposes. I have not seen one for some time, but I have been out of the swim of that activity. I am interested in knowing whether it is still available.