Bernard Allen
Ceist:32 Mr. Allen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will merge the Irish Trade Board and Forbairt. [21968/97]
Written Answers. - Irish Trade Board-Forbairt Merger.
Ruairí Quinn
Ceist:38 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the stage, if any, at which her proposals relating to the future of Forbairt and the Irish Trade Board are at; if she has taken into account the deep level of concern in the Irish business community regarding recent statements on this matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22036/97]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 32 and 38 together.
I would refer the Deputies to my previous reply to a question from Deputy Owen on 30 September 1997 in which I indicated that I was considering whether changes in the structure of the development agencies are required. My consideration of relevant issues in this area is now at an advanced stage. I will be finalising my views on the matter in the near future.
In regard to the issue of business community concerns raised by Deputy Quinn, I would assure the Deputy that I am in continuing and close contact with the business community and am fully aware of the diversity of views held by its members on this and other matters of enterprise policy.