Government to monitor lending to small firms

The Government is warning that it will make sure AIB and Bank of Ireland loan all of the €400 million provided under a new scheme for small firms.

The Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland is aimed at boosting finance in the SME sector – which has been among the hardest hit in the downturn.

It's hoped the scheme will boost job creation and economic output after it opens for business at AIB and BOI branches next month.