Chris Andrews (Dublin South East, Fianna Fail)

The Opposition would have been only too glad to have been able to court the Green Party but, again, they were unsuccessful. They have not come to terms with that fact.

The Bill will make the business expansion scheme more accessible for recycling companies and also provides for a reduction in the VAT rate applicable on certain supplies used for the agricultural production of biofuels from 21% to 13.5%.

In summary, I welcome the Bill because it supports small and medium enterprises, which are and will continue to be the linchpin of our economy. It provides a fairer tax system, which benefits lower income earners, and it provides financial incentives to protect the environment, which will provide for future generations. In an uncertain world economy, it is vital that we continue to strive for a balance that encourages enterprise and protects the less well-off in society. This is exactly what the Bill does, which is why I support it.

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