John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)

The micro-finance loan scheme is before the Government and will be sufficient to meet demand. Each loan will provide up to €25,000 for start-up companies and people with ideas in order that enterprise might be encouraged. The scheme will be important, as the banks are not meeting the level of demand. I agree with the Deputy that all the evidence indicates that people are experiencing significant difficulties. This is evident from the number of closures and the lack of confidence in the commercial sector. The partial loan guarantee will not substitute for the banks, but it will provide a level of comfort for clients seeking loans from banks.

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