Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

It would be worthwhile to have a debate in this House, if possible, on the report by Mr. Colm McCarthy when it is published by the Government. We can discuss the steps to be taken.

Regarding the economic debate which has been discussed and promised, I am concerned about export credit insurance, which is extremely difficult for small businesses to obtain at present. There are some indications that there is an increase of up to 300% in the cost of getting export credit insurance. When I was in the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, export credit insurance was vital. It was the engine of our success in increasing exports. We should bear in mind that we traded approximately €86 billion in 2008. In March there was a reduction of about 6% and it is now vital that the Government acts as other countries have done. Britain has brought in a scheme, as have Denmark and Luxembourg. We are competing with these countries and it is very important that the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, should refer this to the committee which is advising the Government in this regard. Export credit insurance is absolutely vital if we want to maintain exports out of this country. Exports are vital for the survival of this country at this very competitive stage. I know from experience that export credit insurance is vital for small and large exporters. I ask the Leader that this subject might be incorporated into a debate on overall economic recovery and the economy.