asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if any Government grant has been made available to a firm in Athy, County Laoighis, to establish an industry west of the Shannon or any offer been made; and, if so, the amount of such grant and its terms.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Establishment of Industries.
I assume this question refers to the administration of the Undeveloped Areas Act, 1952. If so, I refer the Deputy to replies given on April 2nd and May 21st, to similar questions.
The reply which the Minister has just given does not indicate whether this particular firm has got a substantial grant for the establishment of an industry west of the Shannon. I have asked the Minister if it is a fact that a very substantial grant has been made by the Government to a firm in Athy for the establishment of this industry?
I have already explained that Foras Tionscal has been set up as an independent authority. I have nothing to do with its functions. That body can give any grant it likes without coming to me.
Is this an attempt to prevent an industry coming to the West of Ireland?
It sounds like it.
Does the Minister deny that this particular firm, of which he himself was a former director, has received £90,000 to establish an industry west of the Shannon?
As the Deputy has introduced a personal remark, I will go so far as to say that it is not true. Let me be quite clear, I do not know whether the firm has made application. If it does make application I do not know what the decision of Foras Tionscal will be.
The Minister could have said that at the beginning.