John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Calleary for raising these very important points about point of sale and engagement. As Deputy Bruton has stated recently, we are totally unhappy with the level of lending by banks, especially given that they have been recapitalised by the taxpayer.

On the issue of the micro-finance fund, there is a very active board in place. It has a charitable company status and is working very proactively with the enterprise offices in every county. I agree with the Deputy that is important to get out on the ground and encourage people to engage with the scheme. People must engage with the enterprise offices in places like Mayo, Sligo and Roscommon to even hear of this scheme.

Bank of Ireland, Allied Irish Banks and Ulster Bank have been guaranteed by this State and I am very disappointed that there has not been more proactive engagement on their part. I will deal directly with the banks to determine why the uptake of this scheme has been so slow. It is not good enough and we have been disappointed that there has not been a greater number of applications. I will certainly give the Deputy an update following the meeting with the banks. We will put an obligation on them to get involved and to give this money out to the business people who need it.

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