James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Before I introduce Question No. 8, I refer to Question No. 25, tabled prior to the budget, which refers to Ireland joining the European Southern Observatory. I acknowledge that Ireland has commenced the process of joining the body. This is a welcome and positive step for Ireland's astronomy community and presents many commercial opportunities. I thank the Tánaiste and her Department for their role in this matter.

Question No. 8 refers to the possibility of introducing an innovation scheme that would provide Government support to allow small businesses, with their limited reserves and cashflow but unlimited energy and enthusiasm, to innovate.

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