Has the Minister had any discussions with Fóir Teoranta in regard to the plight of some of the manufacturing firms who were suppliers to the former H. Williams group? Secondly, in regard——

I ask for brevity.

——to the vulnerability of many companies to a collapse of this kind, will the Minister consider introducing a mandatory requirement for the publication of the level of credit outstanding to creditors of large purchasers like supermarket groups in order to protect small suppliers from a further debacle of this kind?

I have had no discussions with Fóir Teoranta on this subject and I do not think that would be appropriate. Any supplier can approach Fóir Teoranta for assistance on the basis of their normal criteria. In regard to the Deputy's suggestion about the publication of trade credit outstanding, I will have a look at that to see if there is any way it could be undertaken sensibly, but the Deputy will be aware of the fourth directive and subsequent legislation which makes it easier for the public to get access to some accounts.

Not for multinational companies.

Yes, but there is a procedure whereby the accounts of those operating here are available. I will have a look at the suggestion, anyway.