John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)

We are giving a commitment that a review will take place after one year of operation. Capita Asset Services has been appointed to run the scheme. There will be accountability in government for the operation of the scheme during that period. The Taoiseach is determined and has said clearly that by 2016 Ireland will be one of the best economies in which to establish, grow and develop a business. A report will be laid before the House after 12 months. That is the commitment that has been given. After that date, following a process of due diligence, Members of both Houses can determine what is required, whether the fund should be increased and how successful it has been. Capita Asset Services, a fantastic company, will operate the scheme and will work with business people. It will be easy for the Department to embark on a review because we will know if the scheme has been successful from the reports of the appointed provider. This is a Government which works closely with all agencies to ensure we are delivering.

I said yesterday that Enterprise Ireland had launched a very detailed document. I suggest that document be debated here and Members will see that there is positivity in the economy, not pessimism, about which we hear constantly. There are some great companies. If we are to raise confidence levels, we should speak with confidence where there are challenges and difficulties. We are anxious to deal with the issue of the credit deficit in the economy and doing everything possible in this regard. The banks have been recapitalised. The Taoiseach and the Minister for Finance, Deputy Michael Noonan, are meeting the banks and have given a commitment to deliver for viable companies. Let nobody assume that banks will give money to a company which will not pay it back. That will not happen. They will give it only to companies which are viable. Certain segments of the economy, in the light of the changes in business in the past ten years, have changed fundamentally. Companies will have to reconfigurate or enter a new line of business. There are some extraordinary companies with great potential. Unfortunately, this not reported in the national media or the local press. Small enterprises are the backbone of the economy and the Government is determined to provide them with the service and respect they deserve. The scheme is a start. In 12 months we will have a review and there will be interim reports during the year. Given the flexibility provided for in the Bill, the Minister may review the scheme at any time.