asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that knitting factories in Skibbereen and Kanturk have closed; whether he has any proposals for the establishment of another industry to provide employment for the displaced workers; whether proposals for any industry in West Cork were rejected on the grounds that no local capital was available; and whether he has any proposals for the establishment of new industries in West Cork.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - West Cork Industries.
I have seen Press reports about the intended transfer of operations from knitting factories in Skibbereen and Kanturk to Mullingar.
No proposals for an industry in West Cork would be rejected solely on the grounds that local capital was not available. I understood that, in a couple of instances, proposals for new industries in West Cork, for which Foras Tionscal had approved grants under the Undeveloped Areas Act, have not as yet proceeded because of difficulties experienced by the promoters in completing their own arrangements.
With regard to the establishment of new industries in West Cork, the promoters of any sound proposal can count on receiving substantial assistance. I am aware of certain cases in which private interests are examining the possibility of establishing industries in the areas and their detailed proposals are awaited.
Will the Minister state if a grant has been made or promised in respect of the knitting industry recently removed from Skibbereen to Mullingar, and if such grant was made or promised, why was it not made a condition that the knitwear industry would stay in Skibbereen where it started?
No grant was made or promised, or will be given.