Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 10 Nov 1999

Vol. 510 No. 4

Written Answers. - Vegetable Production.

Willie Penrose

Question:

105 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the steps, if any, being taken to procure a replacement vegetable processing factory for a company (details supplied) in County Cork which has been closed for a considerable period of time; the arrangements made to process vegetables produced by farmers in this area; if this facility has been sold; if so, when the investment expenditure of the State will be repaid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22774/99]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh)

My Department is co-operating fully with Enterprise Ireland in its efforts to find an alternative enterprise for this facility. The site continues to be promoted as a prospective location for investment. This has led to some on-site visits-inspections by potential investors but it remains premature to speculate whether these will result in definitive plans.

I appreciate that the closure of the facility, which has not been sold, has impacted negatively on vegetable growers in the area. The issue of their alternative production or supply arrangements is, however, one for the individual growers. I will seek to ensure, however, that to the extent possible their interests are borne in mind in pursuing an alternative enterprise at the Midleton site.