asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of reports that a new factory at Ardfinnan, County Tipperary (details supplied) will not be opened; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna-Questions. Oral Answers. - Tipperary Industries.
51.
I have been informed by the Industrial Development Authority that the company in question are now installing machinery in their Ardfinnan factory and intend to start recruiting workers later this month. It is expected that production will commence in late summer when the workers have been trained.
52.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the present position regarding negotiations for a new industry in Tipperary town; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I have been informed that the Industrial Development Authority are at present at a very advanced stage of negotiation with a firm who are interested in setting up a manufacturing concern in the town. This project is expected to provide substantial employment at full production.
The Deputy will be aware that there is also an advance factory available in the town. I understand that the authority have been in negotiation with several companies about the possibility of setting up in the factory, but so far without success.
The authority are continuing their efforts to secure an industry for the factory.
Would the Minister say what is the delay with the new industry? This has been negotiated for quite some time now. The various people concerned have given their co-operation. What is the delay in announcing the setting up of this factory? Would it be the local elections?
No. The practice has been not to announce factories until negotiations have been completed. I think they are very nearly completed now. When they are finished an announcement will be made.
In view of the fact that it is coming near the time when girls finish school and many of them will be employed in this factory when it starts, is it not very important to announce that there will be a new factory so that these people may not, as they do every year, emigrate to England?
I am sure the Deputy can take it that when the negotiations are completed the IDA will announce the factory as quickly as possible.
Would the Minister allow me to announce it?
I am sure the Deputy will be very pleased that the responsibility rests with the Minister for Industry and Commerce who, no doubt, will make the announcement as soon as possible.