Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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153. To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if private limited companies that operate in the social enterprise sector that return their profits back into the community are prevented or limited in accessing enterprise supports and funding; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38995/18]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The Enterprise Agencies under my remit support commercial enterprise. The Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) can only provide financial assistance to commercially viable companies with a potential to export but can provide soft supports, such as mentoring and training to anyone wishing to start or grow their business. Enterprise Ireland’s core objective is to help companies start, grow, innovate and win export sales in global markets.  However, Social enterprises are eligible to seek loans from Micro Finance Ireland. 

Supports for social enterprises are provided by my colleague, Minister Ring at the Department of Rural and Community Development.