Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 25 Jan 1996

Vol. 460 No. 5

Written Answers. - Small Business Report.

Ivor Callely

Ceist:

20 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment the number of recommendations that remain outstanding from the Small Business Task Force report; the recommendations likely to be implemented in 1996; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1490/96]

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

The Small Business Task Force made 121 recommendations in its report which was published in March 1994. To date, 19 of these recommendations have been fully implemented and a further 19 have been partially implemented.

The implementation of the remaining 83 recommendations is being pursued by the small business and services division of my Department which has systematically assessed all the recommendations. While it is not possible, at this stage, to forecast the number of recommendations likely to be implemented in 1996, I should mention that changes announced in the budget this week, particularly the reduction in the rate of corporation tax, represent further progress in implementing the recommendations of the task force. In addition, in 1996 my Department will be developing a programme on administrative simplification which will be of particular relevance to a large number of the recommendations. My Department will also be giving special attention to proposals for legislation to resolve the problem of late payment of business debts, which is an area highlighted by the task force as being of significant importance.

It is clear from the Government's document, A Government of Renewal, that this Government is committed to the development of small business. In general terms, I am pleased with the progress that has been made towards creating a better business environment in Ireland for small business to grow and flourish. Much more needs to be done and I will be pressing ahead with a view to substantial further progress in 1996.