Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his response. Our original intention was to table this Commencement matter and seek a response from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, before it was changed, because we believe there is an issue here that we need clarified by that Department concerning the rates of payment and timelines for this programme. Reading the report, it is clear that approval must be given to the proposal first by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. It then goes to the European Commission and can then be launched. I think this is the timeline being proposed.

We are weeks away from Christmas, and mid-term is next week. I am genuinely concerned that we need to get clarity on this scheme. We have no timelines and no indication when it is going to begin. The people we spoke to told us about job losses and a lack of confidence in the sector. The last thing we need now is for January 2023 to arrive without this programme having been announced. That would be a disaster for the entire industry. I am genuinely concerned in this regard. I emphasise the need for urgency here. Perhaps the Minister might be able to provide us with some timelines concerning when he proposes to launch the scheme.