Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 March 2025
278. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the progress his Department has made establishing the small business unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13056/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra279. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the stakeholders that will be included in the small business unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13057/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra280. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the terms of reference for the small business unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13058/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 278 to 280, inclusive, together.
The Programme for Government is clear in the intention to support small businesses and, in particular, the retail and hospitality sectors. The Small Business Unit in my Department will be one of the tools utilised to ensure that small businesses have support and a dedicated focus in Government. Small businesses continue to be the backbone of our local and national economies.
My Department is working to ensure that the Programme for Government actions aimed at supporting small businesses are implemented in an effective and timely manner. These initiatives include rigorously implementing the SME Test, examining how to reduce administrative burdens on businesses, simplifying access to grants and support programmes, ensuring the Local Enterprise Offices are resourced, and increasing access to the National Enterprise Hub.
Developing Ireland’s enterprise base will remain a key focus for Government over the next five years and we will continue to review the supports available from our enterprise agencies and to ensure that we have the right structures in place in my Department to deliver them.
