Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

305. To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if there are definite guidelines in relation to grant assistance from local enterprise offices for a specific business sector (details supplied); if he will introduce a policy to support this emerging sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1386/16]

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

Financial assistance provided by the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) is allocated to anyone wishing to start a new business or expand an existing business, subject to certain eligibility criteria. It should be noted that LEO grant assistance is provided primarily to microenterprises in the manufacturing and internationally traded services sector which, over time, have the potential to develop into strong export entities.

There are three main categories under which direct financial assistance is provided – Priming, Feasibility and Business Expansion grants. The local LEO Evaluation and Approvals Committee is charged with the decision to approve applications for assistance based on the eligibility criteria, and as you will appreciate, I have no role in that process or in the day-to-day running of the LEOs.