Dominic Hannigan (Meath East, Labour)
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Question 63: To ask the Minister for Finance the steps the Credit Review Office is taking to ensure that it is being promoted among the business community; the promotional campaigns it has undertaken; its main avenues of promotion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40893/11]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy may be aware, the Credit Review Office was established to help SME or farm borrowers who have had an application for credit of up to €500K declined or reduced, and who feel that they have a viable business proposition. The CRO also look at cases where borrowers feel that the terms and conditions of their existing loan, or a new loan offer, are unfairly onerous or have been unreasonably changed to their detriment. In terms of the CRO being promoted among the business community, the two pillar banks are required to ensure that all letters of rejection to eligible borrowers include the CRO leaflet. These leaflets should be on display stands in all bank branches of the two pillar banks.

An ongoing media campaign is focused on national and regional radio advertisements, which comprises a weeklong radio advertising burst each quarter at prime commuting time. In addition, print media advertising is used to leverage advertorial and editorial articles in selective national and regional newspapers and the business press. The publication of the CRO quarterly reports trigger further coverage.

The Credit Reviewer has made himself available to meet with journalists for radio and press coverage, and speaks regularly at various business events. In addition, the CRO has taken trade stands at many SME events and conferences.