Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Nov 1995

Vol. 458 No. 5

Written Answers. - Task Force on Small Businesses.

Ivor Callely

Question:

43 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment if he has set targets and costs to accommodate the implementation of more recommendations of the task force on small businesses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15184/95]

Minister for Enterprise and Employment (Mr. R. Bruton)

The question of setting targets to implement more of the recommendations of the small business task force is a matter which I keep under regular review. In fact, I have recently completed a review of the main priority areas and targets of my Department and many of my top priorities relate to small business.

The systematic examination and implementation of the recommendations of the small business task force is being pursued by the small business and services division of my Department which has assessed all of the recommendations and priority areas identified. Its stated objective is the improvement of the operating environment for small business and services.

On the question of costs, a large percentage of the recommendations impact either directly or indirectly on fiscal policy and the cost of implementation has to be balanced by the Government against other demands for Exchequer funds. Nevertheless, I consider that substantial progress has been made and I plan to continue to press ahead with the development of new proposals and initiatives for the small business sector.