Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)

As the Deputy knows, the Government is developing several initiatives designed to get companies that have not been exporting to access the export market. That the Government has also taken great strides to improve access to credit for small to medium-sized enterprises, SMEs, is a significant element. The Government is examining the potential for a strategic bank to provide new sources of capital to focus on infrastructure and enterprise development.

The Government is preparing a range of proposals to address the need to drive more sustainable enterprises. It is not just about spending more money. If that were the solution, we would have solved our problem. Much of it has to do with becoming more effective and competitive, improving regulatory systems, increasing access to credit and refocusing banks on business rather than property. There will be considerable structural change in the economy. It is not just about spending more money, as key issues must be addressed.

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