asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he has received representations from Balbriggan Town Commissioners in connection with the establishment of industries in the town, and, in particular, in connection with the establishment of a hosiery, linen and textile industry, with which Balbriggan has been associated in the past; and, if so, if he will take steps to ensure that the advantages of Balbriggan will be brought to the notice of interested persons.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Balbriggan Industries.
I have received representations from the Balbriggan Town Commissioners as to the need for the establishment of an industry in the town. As the Deputy will appreciate, the establishment of industries is primarily a matter for private enterprise and local initiative. The Balbriggan Town Commissioners have been informed that if they will let me have particulars of the facilities at Balbriggan, including information as to factory sites and an estimate of the capital available locally for investment in industrial projects, I will arrange through the Department and the Industrial Development Authority to have these facilities brought to the notice of parties who submit industrial proposals and who have not already selected a location. The Deputy will realise, of course, that the claims of other towns with facilities to offer are also brought to the notice of industrial promoters.
Should any interests submit to me a sound proposal for the establishment of an industry at Balbriggan, I will be glad to assist in any way possible in bringing it to fruition.