asked the Minister for Industry and Energy if he will help finalise the proposals for the setting up of Westport Shoe Co-Op Limited, County Mayo; if he is aware that there has been considerable delay in achieving final arrangements for this important development; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - County Mayo Development.
523.
Since it was first approached by the workers in September 1982, the IDA has co-operated with them in their efforts to establish this co-operative. The IDA engaged the Irish Productivity Centre to act as advisers to the workers and to assist them in drawing up their proposals. Arising from this, the position has now been reached where the IDA approved financial assistance towards the cost of establishing the co-operative. This approval is subject to certain conditions including the requirement that the balance of the finance for the project must be raised by the workers.
The Deputy will appreciate that, of necessity, proposals such as this take a considerable time to develop. I am satisfied, however, that there was no avoidable delay in bringing the project to its present stage.