Seanad debates

Thursday, 5 March 2009

Investment of the National Pensions Reserve Fund and Miscellaneous Provisions Bill 2009: Committee Stage

 

4:00 pm

Photo of Paul CoghlanPaul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

On that point, I appreciate what the Minister of State had to say on this matter. Bank of Ireland and Allied Irish Banks have two large branch networks throughout the country and are the ideal vehicle through which to get credit flowing again and to provide seed capital for small businesses. While I am delighted to hear there is in place an agreement with the banks following recapitalisation, will the Minister say how much is earmarked in that regard? It is important we know that. Banks will be concerned with maintaining their ratios and improving their profitability rather than focusing on the flow of credit to small businesses. This will cut against the grain. Banks' concern will be for the shareholder rather than small business. We are seeking balance. I would like if the Minister of State could elaborate a little on this and tell us specifically what amount of money is earmarked in this regard.

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