Carol Nolan (Offaly, Independent)

I am delighted to contribute to these statements. There are great examples of social enterprise organisations throughout the country, all of which are doing fantastic work, including Offaly Local Development Company in my constituency of Offaly. The company, which we in the county are fortunate to have, supports voluntary groups and individuals all across Offaly who are already running or thinking of setting up a social enterprise. These supports come in many formats, from individual staff or board member mentoring guidance to the provision of facilitated relevant training, information or networking opportunities that enhance the skills of those involved in a project. I encourage all my constituents who are thinking of setting up a social enterprise to contact Offaly Local Development Company or go to its website. It has already played a significant and important role in respect of Birr swimming pool, Pullough Community Shop, Moneygall Community Gym and a Meals on Wheels programme that serves south and west Offaly. One of the main supports it provides is assisting in the accessing of local and national financial supports such as grant applications. This can be very useful and helpful for groups of people thinking of setting up a social enterprise. It is a vitally important service. As we know, trying to access finance is one of the most time-consuming and challenging aspects of getting anything done at community level. It is great that we have the benefit of Offaly Local Development Company to assist.

I was interested to note some facts about social enterprises that really highlight their ongoing value and importance in all our communities, particularly rural communities. Of the 4,300 social enterprises nationally, 43% are based in rural areas, where they support a significant employment contribution. That factor is really significant. It is so important that we protect and maintain these enterprises in rural Ireland. They are predominantly composed of women, who represent 69% of the total number employed in social enterprises. These facts are valuable insights into the very positive role social enterprises play in many rural communities such as my own in County Offaly. It is absolutely vital that we support the great work these social enterprises are doing. We must ensure they remain active and are financed and supported in every way possible.

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