Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for her reply. It is an undisputed fact that SMEs are the backbone of our economy. The sector is the main contributor to our employment. Over 99% of businesses are in the sector. Almost 70% of people are employed by SMEs. SMEs are often overlooked, with greater focus being placed on foreign direct investment and large multinationals receiving a lot of media attention ahead of the smaller companies that create the economies in our cities, suburbs, towns and villages.

In County Clare, there is a strong multinational footprint. We are sixth in the country. We have a thriving SME sector which continues to grow, with businesses going from strength to strength. In addition, there are new start-ups. Furthermore, our restaurants, hotels and retailers continue to employ hundreds and create economic activity by providing quality services.

Emphasis is often placed on new start-ups in establishing new businesses, and rightly so, but we also need to work on supporting existing businesses and helping them to remain profitable and to diversify when they experience difficulties. What plans does the Minister have to continue to support the SME sector in rural and regional Ireland?

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