Ms Fiona Kilcullen:

I reiterate we have had a very positive experience thus far with the first tranche of credit unions joining the Covid credit guarantee scheme. The due diligence process, governance and other systems are assessed to do that. The credit unions that have been successful in joining the Covid credit guarantee scheme are now in a position to join other schemes quite easily, and with the open-call system we welcome applications from credit unions. Also, Microfinance Ireland is providing loans in a similar sector, with good links to the local enterprise offices to provide support and mentoring to small businesses throughout Ireland. The reach for small business and microbusiness throughout the country, through credit unions, Microfinance Ireland and the local enterprise office network, is something we are definitely pursuing.