Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

349. To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if, in the context of the development of the new local enterprise offices which will provide directed and targeted supports for businesses and entrepreneurs, the specific needs of Gaeltacht and business/potential businesses operating through the Irish language will be addressed by LEOs, particularly by LEOs with jurisdiction over areas with Gaeltacht areas. [8326/14]

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The purpose of the CEB Dissolution Bill 2013, which is going through its final stages in the Oireachtas, is to give effect to the Government Decision to create an enhanced national micro enterprise support model, delivered through the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) which will be established in each Local Authority area.

The LEOs will have primary responsibility for the delivery of State support to the micro and small business sector.

The Bill provides for the dissolution of the CEBs and the transfer of the functions, assets, liabilities and staff to Enterprise Ireland. The operation of the new LEOs will be under an agreed Service Level Agreement (SLA) between Enterprise Ireland and each Local Authority. This SLA also provides for engagement and collaboration with a range of other State bodies, including Údarás na Gaeltachta, in order to maximise State support to the micro and small business sector. The Centre of Excellence within Enterprise Ireland is charged with developing the relevant protocols with the other State bodies.