Paudie Coffey (Fine Gael)

I ask that the Leader provide time for a debate on small to medium enterprises, SMEs. This sector provides employment for thousands of people, supports local economies and is export-led in nature. Manufacturing is a major element of the SME sector. I reiterate what I said on previous occasions, namely, that we cannot give up on manufacturing. I accept that we are trying to improve our competitiveness and there are signs that this is happening. In that context, I would like the Leader to make time available for a full debate on manufacturing and SMEs and on how the State can provide support to these businesses. At present, SMEs are suffering because they are not getting access to credit, which is their lifeblood. If the SMEs begin to disappear, thousands of jobs will also disappear. There has been little discussion about these enterprises during the current crisis. We must focus on SMEs and provide them with greater support.