asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the great need for the establishment of an industry at Mountmellick, County Laois; whether in view of the fact that this town was once described as the Manchester of the Midlands he will take steps to direct the attention of industrialists and investors to the possibilities which the town can offer; and whether in view of the employment position he will give the matter his urgent attention, having regard to the possibility of local capital becoming available for investment in any project which he would direct towards the town.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Establishment of Industry in Mountmellick.
14.
As the Deputy is aware, the Government has provided valuable facilities and incentives to encourage the establishment and development of industries and it is for private enterprise to take advantage of these facilities. The Deputy may take it that any sound proposals that may be formulated by local or other interests for the establishment of industries in Mountmellick would be sympathetically considered. Mountmellick is included in a list prepared in my Department of localities seeking to attract industries and, as opportunity arises, this list is supplied to industrial promoters enquiring about possible locations.