Ms Tara Buckley:

We have never been beneficiaries of Government schemes, but given the different types of business that we represent, it would probably be prudent to consider sectoral schemes. Like the food processor the Deputy mentioned, our members are seeing jumps in electricity costs. We have essential usages and, while we have done a great deal to reduce our consumption, there is a point beyond which we cannot go. It would be right to have sectoral schemes. We would also support sector-specific elements being applied in employment and wage schemes. Often, the voice of the indigenous SME is not heard at the highest level, meaning that people do not understand the different challenges that we face compared with some of the large exporters and multinationals that operate in Ireland and the public service. We would support issues being addressed sectorally.