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

I am happy to discuss this further with the joint committee. To be fair, this was something that was considered in the Department during the term of the previous Government and not implemented. We decided to take it on. It is novel. The changes people have spoken of involve looking at the range of lending products the scheme covers, the range of lenders who can participate, the duration of loans, the level of loans and the caps that operate. Those are the sort of changes that are being considered.

I look at the experience of other countries with these schemes and they have had difficulties in implementing them. We are not alone in finding it difficult to roll out successful schemes of this nature. We are seeking, however, to improve it. It is fulfilling an important requirement and if we can expand it to make a greater impact, my ambition will be fulfilled. For those who have benefited, it has been useful.

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