Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent)
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To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation his plans for targeted action to relieve pressure on small and medium sized businesses in the domestic economy in view of the fact that the pressure of keeping businesses open; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41629/12]

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Supporting SME’s in the current difficult economic climate is a key Government priority. Government actions to relieve pressure on small and medium sized businesses in the domestic economy are set out in the Action Plan for Jobs published in February 2012 and reported on quarterly.

The Action Plan for Jobs is improving the operating environment and supports for job-creating businesses, and is removing barriers to employment.

The Plan details more than 270 actions and specifies the Government body responsible for implementation. The Q2 Progress Report shows that 72 out of 77 actions slated for delivery were delivered.

In addition to work under the APJ 2012 the government is also delivering on the findings of the Advisory group on Small Business. This Advisory Group chaired by Mr John Perry, T.D., published the Voice of Small Business Report in November, 2011. This report contained fifty-seven actions across twelve broad policy areas. Thirty-four of the Groups recommendations are being progressed through the APJ. The remaining 23 Actions are being considered in the context of implementation through the Action Plan for Jobs 2013.

The Deputy will also be aware that the Microfinance Scheme came into operation yesterday, 1 October. This scheme will facilitate €40 million in additional lending over the next five years to businesses employing up to 10 people. I also intend to announce the formal launch the Temporary Partial Loan Guarantee Scheme in the coming days. In addition, Government is making sure that Enterprise Ireland continuous to administer the Development Capital Scheme and the Innovation Fund. This is real evidence of Government getting involved in filling gaps in the market and supporting viable businesses.

We are making solid progress on this crucially important agenda and have already put place a number of measures that will make a practical difference in making it easier for businesses to grow and create jobs. We will redouble our efforts in the coming year with the Action Plan for Jobs 2013 to ensure that we deliver all possible support to business and relieve as much pressure as possible from business at this difficult time.