David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

One of the things that is coming across my desk more and more in recent times is queries in respect of work permits. Although it has been discussed already, I ask the Department to consider putting in place a dedicated phone line for Oireachtas Members to deal with work permits only. I know colleagues would find it very useful. We have an email contact but it can be very hard to explain what the issue is. The Department might consider that option.

Second, I want to ask Mr. Hughes about the regional enterprise development fund in the context of remote working hubs. Am I correct that this can only be accessed by not-for-profits in regard to putting in place remote working hubs? Has consideration been given to businesses getting support to set up remote working hubs? We spoke about working from home. What seems to be happening is that, for people living in a regional town, working from home is not as attractive as going to a hub and working there rather than driving a long distance into a city. We also have the environmental issue, which is a positive as people do not have to travel a long distance, in addition to the issues of time saved, quality of life and so on. The remote working hub is a good concept but it seems to be ad hocand driven by the not-for-profit sector. Has consideration been given to encouraging businesses to set up these facilities?

My third question, which is on insurance, is for Mr. Hughes but Mr. McDonnell might like to comment. Has consideration been given to establishing a regulator for the insurance sector? We have one in energy, one in transport and one in communications and so forth, but there is a need to regulate the insurance sector so it is allowed a certain amount of profit but, after that, the charges are controlled. This pertains in some other jurisdictions. It would mean that when outgoings and claims are reduced, the premiums should reduce as well for business.

Mr. McDonnell mentioned concerns about unvaccinated people coming to work.