asked the Minister for Finance if plans for a new food processing factory on a site at Long Pavement, Limerick for Erin Foods have been submitted to his Department; and, if so, the progress made towards sanctioning them.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Limerick Food Processing Factory.
14.
In a press statement of 19th January, last, Cómhlucht Siúicre Éireann Teoranta announced that it had been decided to continue the Mattersons operation at Limerick. I understand that, consequent upon this decision, CSET propose to build a new factory in the Limerick area in view of the age and condition of the existing premises, and that the company have taken an option on a site for this purpose. The plans for the proposed new factory do not require the approval of my Department.
Could the Minister tell us with whom does the sanction rest with regard to the development of this ever-increasing industry that we have in Limerick? It is expanding more and more every day I am glad to say. The plans have been held up. It has been approved since last January and nothing has been done.
Responsibility for this lies, of course, with the board of the company. It is not for me to sanction or refuse to sanction their plans in regard to the factory or its location. However, the Deputy can rest assured that plans are going ahead for the building of a new factory in Limerick.