asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he has any plans for the setting up of rural industries in all areas so as to ensure employment locally and so check the continued emigration from country areas to the detriment of the stability of the Irish economy.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rural Industries.
23.
As the Deputy is aware, the State has provided valuable facilities and incentives to encourage the establishment and development of industries in all areas. The initiation of industrial projects, however, is primarily a matter for private enterprise. The decision as to the most suitable location for any such project rests ultimately with the promoters and those proposing to invest their capital in it. Local interests, however, have done and can do much to encourage industrialists to set up industries in their own districts. Needless to say, any sound proposal for the setting up of an industry in any area will always be given all the assistance within my power.
Would the Minister not agree that most of the new industries have been set up in the bigger centres such as Dublin, Cork and Limerick and does he not consider there is any action he could take to stabilise the flow of manpower from the rural areas?
That seems to be the same question in another form. My interest, and Government policy, is to get industries established in this country.
In Dublin, in Cork and in Limerick.
And Ennis, and Kilrush——
And Kilkee.
The cat is out of the bag this time.