Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I will speak to the Minister about that. It would be useful for him to see the situation at first hand.

The LIS is a useful scheme but, as I have seen across the country, including in my own county, it is virtually impossible to clear the backlog.It is huge. However, the point is well made that it is supporting many small enterprises in rural areas that are critically important to the rural economy. It is important that solutions are found at a local level. Again, the responsibility is down to the local authority. There is a significant increase in capital moneys from the Department, but I am sure the local authority will be innovative in trying to find solutions at a local level. I will pass on the Senator's request to visit the county and have a look at the conditions first-hand to the Minister, Deputy Ryan.