andMr. McQuillan asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether it is a fact that workers have lost employment as a result of the closing of a factory in Tuam, County Galway; if so, how many; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Closing of Tuam Factory.
39.
I understand that up to 72 workers have lost employment as a result of the closing down of the factory to which the Deputies refer. The firm's main problem appears to have been one of difficulty in obtaining export markets for their products.
The Industrial Development Authority have been advised of the closing down of the factory and I understand that, with the firm's agreement, the Authority have taken steps to bring the matter to the notice of certain external interests who, it is thought, might be interested in taking over the factory. It is, however, as yet too early to say whether these contacts will bring any results.
I can assure the Deputies that any sound proposals submitted to me for the continuation of operations at the factory, either in the textile or any other field, will receive my most sympathetic consideration.
Has the Minister any idea whether a figure of 400 was mentioned in the early days of the establishment of this factory as the likely employment content?
I have no idea. This factory was established in, I think, 1956. I was not Minister then.
40.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce what grants or other facilities were made available by his Department to a firm in Tuam, County Galway, and the dates on which these facilities were first approved; if he is aware that this industry has recently closed down; and if he is in a position to say when it is expected that this factory will be reopened.
The grant of two new manufacture licences to the firm was approved in March, 1956 and October, 1956. The first-mentioned licence was later revoked at the request of the firm, and a fresh licence was approved in its stead in October, 1958.
Duty-free facilities for the importation of cotton yarn for the production of cloth for the export trade were granted to the firm during the period from March, 1958, to July, 1960.
The annual reports of An Foras Tionscal for the years ended 31st March, 1958 and 1959 indicate that a grant of £67,500 was made to the firm.
As regards the final part of the Question, I would refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 39 today.