Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

There will be no State guarantee for the digital hub agency once the legislation has been passed and implemented. I refer the Senator to 13(2) of the Bill, which reads:

The Agency or a subsidiary may, either by itself or with another person, with the consent of the Minister and the Minister for Finance, promote and take part in the formation or establishment of a company, enter into joint ventures or partnerships for the purpose of fulfilling any of its functions.

That is what is referred to in paragraph (i). It is only done with the consent of the Minister and the Minister for Finance.

Amendment agreed to.

Bill reported with amendment.

Government amendment No. 10:

In page 8, between lines 15 and 16, to insert the following: