asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the number of firms in Limerick city that have (a) closed and (b) reduced their workforce since 14th March, 1973.
Written Answers. - Limerick City Workforce.
122.
Firms are under no obligation to advise me of closure or of a reduction in their workforce. However, I understand from the Shannon Free Airport Development Company that they are aware that in the period 1st January, 1973, to 31st December, 1976, eight firms in Limerick city closed. Statistics for the period commencing 14th March, 1973, are not available. The total employment in these firms was 778.
In the same period SFADCo records show that—23 firms reduced their workforce by a total of 554 persons (from 1,770 on 1st January, 1973, to 1,216 on 31st December, 1973); six new projects with a total employment potential of 679 were approved.