asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the great need for the setting up of a worth-while industry in Portarlington in view of the many industrial facilities which the town can offer; if he will direct Portarlington's claim to the attention of promoters and others; if in view of the need for the provision of further full-time employment in the town a special case can be made in this regard; and whether his Department will give the matter their immediate consideration.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Industrial Development in Portarlington.
61.
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 Portarlington will be sympathetically considered. Portarlington 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 inquiring about possible locations.
As the Deputy will appreciate however the decision as to the most suitable location for an industrial project must rest with the promoters of the project.
In view of the very special circumstances prevailing in Portarlington, where numbers of workers, first-class vocational schools, sites and capital are available, would the Minister, through the Industrial Development Authority, be prepared to recommend specially the great merit associated with Portarlington?
I would not be prepared to recommend any place specially to prospective industrialists. The merits and amenities of areas are brought to the attention of inquirers without preference for one over and above another.
If private investors were aware of the facilities afforded by Portarlington they would be very interested.