Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

My party has supported the passage of this Bill through both Houses. We trust that business will grow and prosper following the establishment of the agency. We are pleased that some of the amendments referred to by the Minister were introduced in response to proposals made by other members of my party. We especially welcome amendment No. 3, which allows for representation on the board by a member of the local community. That will be of great benefit and will give ownership of the agency and the hub to local people. I commend the Minister for accepting this proposal.

Perhaps the Government might also consider the establishment of a fund to support the businesses who are setting up in the hub with the help of the agency, especially with regard to escalating costs, including insurance costs, which could hinder their development. We accept these amendments and commend the Bill.