Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputies for their questions. In my comparisons, I am talking about Northern Ireland as well. Hopefully, we do not see that as Brexit Britain.

We are working hard to formulate a cost-of-doing-business package for the SME sector. I hope we will see that in the weeks ahead. We know the acute pressure the sector is under. Every time businesses came under pressure, including from energy costs and inflation, we were there to provide them assistance. We are continuing along that trajectory. There are an array of grants and supports, but we know we have to do more. We are clear on that front and we will do more. That is why I am listening to businesses and examining PRSI and a number of other areas where we can assist them with some of the regulatory changes they have experienced. This also goes to Deputy Durkan’s point on supporting businesses. We are doing just that.

Our economy is still in a strong position and we have 2.7 million people employed, which is a record number. Any decision taken in my Department will be evidenced-based, support employees and businesses, and try to ensure they remain on a sustainable footing.

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