asked the Minister for Trade, Commerce and Tourism whether he is satisfied with the results of the scheme, initiated in 1982, to subsidise the recruitment of foreign-based export marketing executives; if so, the reason this subsidy was reduced in 1983; and whether he will ensure that the scheme is continued at the original level of recruitment, if not at an increased level, in view of its importance to the maintenance of growth in exports and consequent employment.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Employment Support Scheme.
4.
I am satisfied with the results of the employment support scheme which began in late 1981.
The grant in aid for Córas Tráchtála for 1983 was fixed at £16.24 million as compared with 1982 outturn of £12.619 million. Despite this increased provision, it was decided by Córas Tráchtála to allocate less to the employment support scheme in order to meet expenditures in other areas.
Has the Minister seen the calculations by the CII that the net exports generated by each of these additional executives averaged £300,000 and their calculation also that for each additional marketing executive employed an extra 10,000 jobs are created here? In the light of that could I urge the Minister to ensure that whatever else comes or goes in the Estimate discussions of this Government he will give consideration to this matter?
While not commenting on the Deputy's exact figures a very valuable scheme has been recognised as such. Last year, despite the very difficult budgetary situation and cutbacks in my area, an increase of approximately 24 per cent was made to CTT and that was a very clear indication of the Government's recognition of the importance of the export market and the effectiveness of CTT's approach.
I am only anxious to hear from the Minister his assurance that he will press on CTT the necessity for maintaining this scheme and extending it, if possible, and make sure that the funds are there.
They were provided with funds.