asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if, in addition to the sausage meat factory now in operation in Clara, County Offaly, any progress has been made towards the setting up of industries in the town.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Offaly Industrialisation.
28.
In addition to the sausage meat factory which I understand is already employing some 25 workers, the IDA are at an advanced stage of negotiation for the establishment of a textile project in Clara which, if started, is expected to employ about 100 workers at full production.
The IDA are also in touch with other industrialists regarding the possible setting up of industry in Clara but these negotiations are confidential at this stage.
Did I understand from the Minister that they are setting up a textile industry in this town?
I said that the IDA are at an advanced stage in negotiating for the establishment of a textile project there.
I can see no sense in setting up a textile industry in Clara when you closed down one in Tuam about a month ago.
And the two in Athlone.
I should like to point out that the allegation by the Deputy that I closed down a factory in Tuam is completely unfounded.
The Minister opens them all right but he has nothing to do with their being closed. That is Fianna Fáil policy and Fianna Fáil tactics, If there is one opening the Minister is on television with a big smile——
I am sorry that side of the House does not include at present either of the two Fine Gael Deputies for the constituency to endeavour to defend this attack that is being made on this small industrial project in Clara.
I have no doubt the Minister, being a Deputy for the constituency, would accept the fact that the people of Clara are concerned with the prospects of immediate employment. I appreciate the situation is difficult. Can the Minister indicate whether any immediate prospect exists for employment in Clara?
I have just said in the reply that the sausage meat factory which was announced some time ago has now gone into production, that there are already 25 workers employed and that its full employment potential is in the region of 80. This further industry, which the IDA hope to get off the ground pretty shortly, will mean further employment for an additional 100 people.
(Interruptions.)
Irrespective of what Deputy Donnellan has said, I shall continue to strive for an industry there.
What about cherishing all the children equally?
What is the sense in establishing a textile industry when the future of this industry is in jeopardy?
That is a separate question. Question No. 29.