Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour) | Oireachtas source

In my previous occupation before entering politics I was an e-business manager. There are a number of grants available for retailers in that space. It is an area that has been quite successful, but it probably could be developed even further.

With regard to the Deputy's commentary on the need for local authorities to ramp up their activities rather than seeing businesses as a cash cow, I was with members of my local authority at the Limerick Institute of Technology campus in Thurles, County Tipperary, last week, where it held a showcase of all the developing businesses in the area. I encourage all local authorities to do this. Others have done it, and it is a good idea. In fairness, with the broadening of the tax base, which has been encouraged under this Government, and the establishment of the local enterprise offices, LEOs, and the local community development committees, LCDCs, which are in the process of being established, there is greater interaction between the local authorities, the business communities, traders and so forth, and there is greater connectivity. There is also more flexibility regarding rates and levies, and that will become more progressive. As a consequence, I believe there is a more nuanced relationship which facilitates business and traders to a greater extent. Can it be improved into the future? Are all local authorities the same? Probably not, to be honest. However, it is far more progressive. Over my period in office I will encourage that as much as possible, because I believe there can be real achievements as a result.

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