Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 June 2014
19. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will consider providing assistance to the local enterprise offices to ensure that they can provide services with a rural-agriculture dimension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23713/14]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware the development, operation and funding of the 31 Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) throughout the country is a matter for my colleague the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation.
These newly established offices are charged with promoting entrepreneurship and micro-enterprise development. They have been specifically developed to provide the first-stop-shop for those starting a new business as well as those wishing to expand an existing one. As advised in the answer to Parliamentary Question 23810/14 earlier this month, these offices “will be able to provide information and guidance to all business ideas, including those with a rural / agricultural dimension, and can provide funding and mentoring / training to projects that have the potential to trade internationally and become commercially viable”.
As part of their remit, where necessary, LEOs will refer entrepreneurs and aspiring businesses to relevant support services to assist specific development needs. In that context, if requested, marketing, consumer and innovation support services could be provided by Bord Bia while, if relevant, Teagasc could assist with scientific and technological knowledge.
