Sorca Clarke (Longford-Westmeath, Sinn Fein)
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1747. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the reason a social enterprise seeking to support survivors of SGBV would not be eligible for BTWEA/STEA; if he has plans to review the eligibility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44355/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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The Back to Work Enterprise Allowance and the Short Term Enterprise Allowance schemes offers support for jobseekers and others in receipt of certain social welfare payments who are interested in self-employment as a route to re-entering the labour market. Government has provided €30 million for the scheme in 2025.

The schemes provide support for the setting up of a new enterprise based in Ireland which is established as a sole trader, a partnership or a limited company. As part of the application process for the scheme, factors including the viability and financial sustainability of the proposed business are considered.

If the deputy wants to forward the details of the social enterprise referred to in his question, supporting those who have experienced Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, I will arrange for my officials to examine the circumstances of the case.

The deputy is also advised that the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment provides a range of tailored supports for new and existing enterprises in Ireland. This includes the network of Local Enterprise Offices across the country.