John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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I mention the re-emergence of the economy and the fact we are all hearing about restructuring. This is going on since 2011. Many credit unions need assistance. A fund was set up and the primary focus was to reignite business and reorganise small companies. There is a very good example in Kilkenny, where businesses are funded. We have the microfinance fund and the State guarantees up to €25,000 for small companies. I am amazed there is not a level of co-operation with the State in regard to the draw down of the fund.

I am very disappointed. I am a very straight talker. We have a fund with €250 million and only €3.5 million has been drawn down. People are being refused credit by credit unions due to massive restructuring. We have report after report talking about restructuring but very little is happening.