SFA: Govt growth strategy lacks detail

The Government’s first post-bailout economic plan has been met with a mixed response, with the Small Firms Association claiming it is short in detail.

Acting director Avine McNally said: “It is vital that Government works with small business to put the right policies in place, as this vital sector will drive growth in the wider economy, more so than any other.

“The small business sector given the right economic conditions will generate the growth needed to create jobs and overcome our debt burden. Small business can lead the way in helping Ireland to recover faster and stronger.”

Trade union Siptu added that the strategy stops short of prescribing specific key actions in many areas.

Economist Marie Sherlock said firm efforts need to be made for tackling household debt and job creation.

“In that context, the plans to be published by the individual government departments in the New Year will be critical,” Ms Sherlock said.

“These must make the difference between general assurances on fixing the banking system and repairing the private debt crisis and actually ensuring that progress can be made in removing these obstacles to economic recovery.”