asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Tourism the achievements of the IDA job creation programme since 1977 in respect of the north inner city of Dublin; and the proposals he has to continue to create employment in this area because of the high unemployment rate there in recent years.
Written Answers. - IDA Job Creation Programme.
239.
I am informed by the Industrial Development Authority that, prior to the establishment of their inner city unit in 1979, the inner city area was not promoted separately from the rest of Dublin. This unit was established to promote in an intensive manner the industrial development of the inner city area and a total job approval target of 2,000 was set for 1979 and 1980. Job approvals in this period amounted to 2,900.
As part of their programme to promote the inner city, the Authority are currently developing two sites in the north inner city area. A 4.5 acre site has been acquired by the IDA in the East Wall area. A total factory space of 150,000 sq. ft. is planned for this site on which four advance factory units totalling 20,000 sq. ft. have already been built. One of these units is now occupied by an engineering project which will employ 16 persons at full production. The IDA are in negotiation for further projects for the remaining units. The IDA have also acquired a half-acre site in Prussia Street. It is expected that construction of four units of factory space totalling 20,000 sq. ft. will commence there in early June. The IDA are at present seeking to identify further suitable sites in the North inner city area for future acquisition.