Rory Hearne (Dublin North-West, Social Democrats)
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964. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the supports being put in place to support the formation of community-led co-operatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43730/25]

Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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The co-operative model is one of a number of corporate options available to those considering establishing themselves in business. However, the choice of corporate model is a matter for the founders of any business and my Department does not promote any particular corporate structure over any other.

Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) are committed to supporting a diverse range of business models that contribute to innovation, employment, and economic growth in Ireland. This includes co-operatives, provided they meet the core eligibility criteria of the relevant support schemes.

The Co-operative Societies Bill, which is nearing completion, will provide for the most far-reaching reform of the legislation governing co-operatives in the history of the State. The Bill introduces a modern legal framework which will place the co-operative model on a more favourable and clear legal basis and encourage the consideration of the co-operative model as an attractive formation option for entrepreneurs and also for social and community activities. A modern legislative basis, including strong corporate governance requirements, will also provide confidence to stakeholders and help to encourage investment in co-operatives.

In the context of enactment of the Bill, my Department intends to engage widely with stakeholders including the co-operative sector, professional advisers, development agencies, relevant Government departments etc. to raise awareness of the modernised legislative basis underpinning co-operatives as an attractive option for entities wishing to operate under the co-operative ethos.