Mixed reaction from industry

Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association"High on aspiration, low on content" is how the chief executive of the Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association (ISME), Mr Mark Fielding, has described aspects of the agreed Programme for Government between Fianna Fáil and the PDs.

ISME pointed to the lack of detail on how the administration hoped to tackle the problem of public expenditure.

It noted the Government's assurance that it would take the interests of small businesses into account when formulating and implementing policy, and also its commitment to "resolve issues, difficulties and conflicts in the spirit of social partnership".

ISME sees the two statements as a contradiction in terms, as, it says, the SME sector has not been given full partnership status.

It was disappointed that those on the national minimum wage would not be taken out of the tax net.

ISME welcomed the creation of a ministry for transport and measures tackling insurance problems.

Dublin Chamber of Commerce

Dublin Chamber of Commerce has broadly welcomed the programme, noting in particular the commitment to develop the city centre to Dublin Airport section of the Metro by 2007.

It also welcomed the appointment of a Minister for Transport, the creation of a dedicated Traffic Corps, increased competition in the bus market and the reduction in corporation tax.

However, it criticised the lack of a commitment to construct a national conference centre in Dublin.

Irish Hotels Federation

The Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) has said the document contains a number of positive and proactive measures for tourism. It particularly welcomed the commitment to support Tourism Ireland and hoped additional funding would be made available to help recovery in the sector.

The Government's assurance that the new fast turn-around airline facility at Dublin Airport, Pier D, will be completed in time for the 2003 season was strongly welcomed by the federation.

It also welcomed the establishment of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board and the banning of "no foal, no fee" advertisements by solicitors.