Imelda Henry (Fine Gael)

I welcome the Minister of State. In the past year he has travelled the country visiting small businesses, and his determination and hard work is a great help to those businesses. Time and again, when the economy is in trouble, small and medium-sized businesses suffer but, against all the odds, they come back and provide employment and stimulate cashflow. We need to give them all possible help. Cashflow is the lifeblood of businesses and every business needs credit or loans. It is clear that businesses have significant difficulties in getting loans or credit from the bank. Many business people say that even with a good credit rating and substantial collateral, they have trouble getting credit. We are always delighted to hear about foreign investment in Ireland and multinationals creating jobs, but I heard recently Patricia Callan of the Small Firms Association say that at a time when jobs are in short supply, every citizen should be actively encouraged to create a job for themselves. The Bill will help them to do that.

The Government has made a commitment in the programme for Government to ease the problem for SMEs, and the Bill should greatly help the position. When the Minster, Deputy Richard Bruton, introduced the Bill, he said a large number of microenterprises are locally owned businesses that give their owners enough income to support their families and contribute to their locality. No glamour or particular riches are attached but they are the true heart and soul of Irish businesses and the Government firmly intends to support them. I wholeheartedly agree and welcome the Minister's sentiments and his commitment to do all he can to help the sector survive and thrive. We have many bright and intelligent young people with ideas and initiative. We have older people with skills, experience and determination. Microfinance Ireland will be a welcome addition to the supports and grants already available. Each of us has an important part to play. We must try to spend locally and buy Irish whenever possible.