asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware of the depth of concern in the Carlow area at the continuing difficulties experienced by the local food processing industry; and the steps which will be taken to overcome those difficulties or to provide alternative economic activities for those engaged in food production and processing.
Written Answers. - Carlow Food Industry
348.
I take it that the Deputy is referring to the recently announced decision of the Board of Comhlucht Siúicre Éi-reann Teo. to cease processing vegetables at its Carlow food plant. I have indeed been made aware of the concern of those involved and I am being kept informed of developments as they arise.
The sugar company has undertaken that it will do all in its power to minimise the effects of its decision on the employees concerned. What is envisaged is that the company will offer the maximum number possible of the employees affected alternative employment in a CSET controlled company or activity or will seek to have them employed in a new industry in the Carlow area. Towards this end the company will take every reasonable step in conjunction with the IDA and other State agencies towards securing alternative productive employment in the area.
In the case of growers who have regularly grown vegetables in the area in the past five years and who have committed significant expenditure to the production of vegetables, efforts will be made, where appropriate, to offer beet contracts in lieu. Where this is not feasible alternative special arrangements will be considered.
Unfortunately it is not possible for us to insulate ourselves from the effects of the economic difficulties which the vegetable processing industry throughout Western Europe has been passing through in recent years. The future of the industry as a whole is at present under detailed examination by the horticultural development group which I have set up under the aegis of my Department.