asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that a factory (name supplied) are about to close down; and in view of the fact that the firm have turned down substantial orders if he will indicate (a) whether the State was asked for any assistance and (b) if the State would be prepared to assist alternative management to continue the factory in operation if so requested.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Factory Closure.
18.
I am aware that the factory mentioned is about to go into liquidation. An informal approach for State assistance was made prior to the notice of liquidation but was subsequently withdrawn by the management. Any reasonable proposition to enable this factory to continue in operation will be considered sympathetically.
Would the Minister be able to assure the people concerned that the matter will be treated as one of urgency in view of the fact that the proposal to liquidate the factory is coming up very soon?
It is being treated urgently and I hope there will be discussions between officials of my Department and the management over the next two days with a view to settling something.
Not the Minister himself? Would the Minister not consider he should go in himself?
That is something to which I am not in a position to commit myself at this stage.