Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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Microfinance has a very precise definition. However, I do not see anything inhibiting credit unions from providing funding to small businesses in their own communities, if the definition of "microfinance" extends to that. As far as I know, they do it quite regularly, like putting money into small shops, businesses and start-ups. I would encourage them to continue to do so.

I agree with the Deputy's analysis. In the situation we are in, the quality of the spend is as important, if not more, than the quantity. Small amounts of money put into the right place can have great results. There is nothing from stopping the credit unions, large or small, from doing so.