asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy if he will detail the objectives and functions of the proposed export credit finance corporation.

I feel sure that the Deputy will be aware that the proposal was that the establishment of an Export Credit Finance Corporation would be considered. Pending consideration of requirements in this area, which are currently being assessed, I am not in a position to supply the details requested.

Could the Parliamentary Secretary state when and how the vigorous new export marketing drive which was promised will be implemented?

I presume the Deputy is referring to the Fianna Fáil manifesto in which it is stated that a new export credit finance corporation will be considered and legal obstacles to bank support for bonds to cover overseas industrial activity will be removed. The preparation of the necessary amending legislation is in hands and, as I have already stated in answer to the question, pending consideration of requirements as regards the establishment of an export credit finance corporation, the Minister is not in a position to supply the details requested.

Could the Parliamentary Secretary state if there are any other ingredients in the vigorous new marketing export drive which was promised other than the consideration of the export finance corporation and the removal of these legal obstacles referred to?

There are many matters under active consideration in the Department, but as far as the Department can judge the export credit finance scheme for capital goods is working perfectly satisfactorily. This is borne out by the absence of any complaint from exporters concerned and by positive indications from some of the exporters that they are obtaining their reasonable requirements of export credit finance.

Could the Parliamentary Secretary say what matters are under consideration?

The Deputy is getting far away from the question asked by Deputy Barry Desmond.

I am not in a position to answer that question.