Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for coming before the committee and giving a comprehensive overview of all that has happened, especially since Covid hit our shores almost two years ago. I thank him also for the supports that were provided. While I am not directly involved in our family business and have nothing to do with it, I am very aware from small or niche businesses that have availed of these supports, which have certainly helped to keep them afloat. Many of the questions I had prepared are similar to those asked by Senator Casey and I will not repeat them because the Minister answered them. The current legislation allows for the supports to be in place until the end of January. Does the Minister envisage they will end then or will they be phased out?

Two banks have left Ireland within the past 12 months or are in the process of doing so. Are there plans within the Department to create competition in the financial markets to ensure consumers will be better served in light of the fact two banks will have left?