asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if the IDA have any plans to provide industry at Westport, County Mayo.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Western Industries.
8.
I understand that the Industrial Development Authority have recently approved an expansion project for an existing industry in Westport which will lead to a considerable increase in employment. I am not in a position to give details about the project at present. Further industrial development in Westport is being actively encouraged by the authority as part of their promotional programme.
I was informed here some time ago that there were two projects for Westport.
Could I have a question?
Could the Minister state if the projects in question are still coming to Westport? They related to two German firms.
I wish to be as helpful as possible to Deputy Gallagher and, indeed, to Deputies with similar requests, but firms ask for confidentiality. Indeed, in regard to the expansion project I would be quite prepared to give more information if I had clearance to do so, which I have not got. I am afraid, also, that it is not helpful to a particular town because different places compete and, indeed, different countries compete for factory projects. If it becomes public knowledge that something is contemplated before it is settled that can result in great activity, even from another country, particularly in the case of foreign-based firms, to divert the project. It is being pursued actively.
My question is not related to the project the Minister mentioned. I asked if he had any information about the two projects which were listed for Westport over 12 months ago and which have not reached fruition.
When the Deputy says "which were listed for Westport" this is declaring something as fact and possibly he has sources of information I do not have. I have confidential information on the note before me which I am informed and advised would be disadvantageous to make public and I will be guided by that information.
9.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will outline the Government programme regarding the provision of industrial employment in the western areas; and the steps he will take to protect employment in industries threatened with closure.
The Regional Industrial Plans, 1973-1977, for the western areas published by the Industrial Development Authority have the approval of the Government and are being implemented. In the first year of the plans, there was a net increase of 1,908 jobs in manufacturing industry in the western areas.
For firms in difficulties, a special service is operated by the Industrial Development Authority, who work in close co-operation with my Department and with other agencies, including Fóir Teoranta, the Industrial Credit Company Limited and the banks, to help the firms concerned to overcome their difficulties and return to profitable working. Where this is not possible, every effort is made to secure other industrial projects for the area affected in order to preserve, and if possible, increase employment.