Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I propose to take Question Nos. 8 to 10, inclusive, together.

Supporting enterprise and providing a favourable climate for business start-ups and growth are key elements of the Government's strategy for supporting enterprise and growing employment. The jobs initiative announced yesterday contained a number of measures to assist enterprises in creating and retaining jobs. As Head of Government, I have met a number of senior business executives from a range of sectors including manufacturing at domestic events and also during my recent international visits to London, New York and Washington.

I will continue to support the development and implementation of enterprise policy in a variety of ways including through engaging with the business community at home and on international visits and meeting with potential investors where appropriate. However, these and other aspects of enterprise policy are primarily the responsibility of my colleague, the Minister for Enterprise, Jobs and Innovation. As such, any questions on these issues, including future parliamentary questions, should be addressed to him.

I also intend to meet with the representative groups under social partnership, including business representatives, in due course to outline the Government's approach to dealing with our current economic challenges and to explore how their activities can enhance economic and social progress. These meetings have not yet been scheduled. However, I believe that social dialogue can and should continue to take place through the different structures in place across Departments as we implement the programme for Government.

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