Mr. John Shine:

In a general sense, in respect of enterprise development, the Department does not favour or distinguish between corporate models. The Department does not intend necessarily to favour co-operatives over companies. What we want to do is ensure there is a modern facilitative and legislative basis for co-operatives. Then it is a matter of ensuring that the enterprise channels, if we talk about just our Department, equally are aware of that and are in a position to provide that information to those who come looking for advice. Then, however, it is absolutely a matter for the individuals to decide which model suits them. The Department does not actively promote co-operatives over companies or vice versa.