Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Actually, these are net numbers. The net figure is 3,690 full-time equivalents, made up of 3,127 full-time and 1,132 part-time. It is very satisfactory.

The service level agreement is only beginning to have an impact. The LEOs will develop their first annual plans this year. That process is ongoing at present and it is a big part of the regional enterprise approach.

There are two elements to the loan guarantee, and the Minister of State, Deputy Gerald Nash, is taking responsibility in this area. We have a legislative area, which is the extension of terms and certain changes. We are also bringing in a scheme that does not require legislative action, also to be dealt with by Deputy Nash. The legislation is being worked on. It is a more complicated piece of legislation than we would have hoped in terms of getting the drafting done. The matter is being given top priority within the Department and we are working with the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel.