Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Question 68: To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if any county and city enterprise boards could be abolished or merged as part of the rationalisation of State agencies being considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36038/11]

John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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The issue of restructuring the County and City Enterprise Boards (CEBs) is under consideration within my Department and various options have been considered. It is my intention, however, to ensure that any opportunity presented by CEB restructuring will not simply be about reducing or changing the numbers of CEBs in existence but will be used as an opportunity to fundamentally reform, streamline and revitalise the manner in which the State supports the valuable micro-enterprise sector.

In particular, I want to ensure that State support is delivered in a cohesive manner and that there is a targeted local delivery of enterprise support, driven by a national enterprise policy, in a manner which eliminates overlap and duplication and which makes it easier for the end-user to access the necessary supports and services which can help the sustainability and growth of his/her business. The micro-enterprise and small business sector will be central to the economic recovery and the future economic prosperity of this Country and it is vital that it is properly supported at State level.