Shane McEntee (Meath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 79: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the recommendations of the Small Business Forum's recent report which will be implemented in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23901/06]

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin (Kerry South, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 109: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the implementation on each of the recommendations of the Small Business Forum; the timetable for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23519/06]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 79 and 109 together.

In launching the report of the Small Business Forum last month I indicated that the Forum had presented me with a comprehensive set of proposals which were designed to enable the small business sector to achieve its full potential and to enhance the significant contribution which the sector already makes to the economic well-being of this country.

I confirmed that I would be seeking to implement all the recommendations that fall within my Department's remit and that I would be working closely with my Government colleagues to look at an implementation path for the remaining recommendations which do not fall within my area of responsibility. My Department has commenced its detailed deliberations on the appropriate means to implement the relevant recommendations, including consultations with relevant agencies. I am confident that significant progress will be made in respect of implementation by the end of the year.

As I also promised when launching the report, I have now invited the members of the Forum to remain in place to act as a body to review the implementation of the report's recommendations and progress in achieving the report's core objectives and I am confident that this will ensure consistent and thorough follow-up and timely implementation of the various recommendations.