Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

I have asked Shannon Development to look at other areas within its region. Parts of Clare, perhaps, that might not have developed as well as the Shannon area might be focused on, as well as north Tipperary, parts of Offaly and west Limerick. These are important areas that need particular attention because in some of them, traditional indigenous manufacturing has declined. In that regard we need to concentrate on the small business opportunities for such areas. I know Shannon Development is keen on that, through major projects such as Digital River, the major deep water facility and the proposed FEG initiative there. In my recent discussions with Shannon Development I was assured this was ongoing and I am quite satisfied with the progress that has been made. Senator Coghlan referred to that in the course of his address.

Senator Leyden made a broader point in the context of today's budget, which is very topical and appropriate to this debate. The range of measures announced today for the small and medium enterprises sector represents more than 100% of the recommendations of the small business forum, SBF. The SBF comprises representatives of small businesses as well as the agencies and that sets a good context and backdrop for the new structures we are putting in place which should facilitate the regions.

Senator Hanafin eloquently went through the history of Shannon Development and dealt with its contribution across different areas, from tourism to heritage and industry, and that point has been well made.

I accept what Senator Kitt had to say and Enterprise Ireland will be glad to meet him and his group. In fact, along with Enterprise Ireland, I addressed a large group of indigenous interests last year in Galway city. We also met small employer forums from Mayo and Galway to hear at first hand about the challenges they faced in setting up and running businesses in that region. We had frank exchanges with them which were facilitated by Enterprise Ireland and I look forward to continuing this type of approach of listening to what people at the coalface of business have to say. Senator Coghlan is no stranger to that, either, to be fair. I thank all the Senators for their co-operation.