Michael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Mary Ann O'Brien spoke in her contribution about the need to support indigenous businesses as well as rewarding innovation, hard work and risk-taking. I very much support that. The measures being taken in An Action Plan for Jobs will address some of issues. However, from a taxation point of view this is something I know the Minister will keep under close review in future.

Another measure I very much welcome is the VAT refunds for home improvements. The Minister has continued the measures for next year. This has certainly been of major benefit to small builders. It has kick-started some economic activity in some of the smaller rural areas. Now that people are spending a little more, there is no doubt that tradesmen, electricians, plasterers and plumbers are beginning to benefit from that measure. I am keen to see that continue.