Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The European Union has set aside money for the youth guarantee scheme. It might be better for Deputies to table questions to the Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Joan Burton, on the operation of the scheme. I understand programmes will be developed at EU level, with national governments seeking to develop initiatives within programme guidelines. As always, EU funds will be supplemented by national contributions in the draw-down. The Minister for Social Protection can give Deputies additional data on the development of the scheme.

The retail sector is, undoubtedly, a very important employer. The Government has shown that it is alert to the needs of the sector through cuts in PRSI and VAT, the readjustment of wage settlement mechanisms, its new initiative to get businesses to go online and the initiative of the Minister of State, Deputy John Perry, to reform licensing arrangements for retail businesses. Deputy Mick Wallace is correct that a recovery in demand is crucial and the Government has been building a sustainable basis on which to rebuild the economy. That involves correcting the public finances, as well as an expansion into export markets and building employment. We are seeing the creation of, on average, 1,000 jobs per month in the private sector. We are building a strong economy which can support a retail sector. It is work in progress and a great deal remains to be done.

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