Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 18 Apr 2000

Vol. 518 No. 3

Written Answers. - County Enterprise Boards.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

85 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the plans, if any, she has to fund each county enterprise board so grants can be offered to enable SMEs to become involved in e-commerce projects, obtain training to up skill their existing staff and develop trade in the new economy; if grant assistance will be offered in the same way through FÁS; her views on the shortage of skilled people in this area; and her plans for dealing with this issue. [11637/00]

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. Treacy)

The promotion of e-business has been identified as a priority activity by the 35 city and county enterprise boards in the National Development Plan 2000-2006. To this end, the boards are in consultation with my Department regarding the creation of a suitable programme of activities, which I will announce, when final agreement on the project has been reached. FÁS is considering a support programme for e-commerce. The relevant details will be announced in due course, when they have been agreed with the relevant bodies.