asked the Minister for Industry and Energy if the IDA will acquire land and provide advance factories in Kilkenny; and the locations of these lands and factories.
Written Answers. - Advance Factories.
603.
I am informed by the Industrial Development Authority that they are actively promoting a total of 33 acres of land for industrial development at six locations in County Kilkenny as follows: Ballyraggett — 6 acres; Callan — 5 acres; Castlecomer — 8 acres; Freshford — 4.5 acres; Graiguenamanagh — 3.5 acres; Thomastown — 6 acres.
In addition, the IDA are promoting a 5,000 sq. ft. advance factory in Freshford for small industry.
The IDA also acquired the 510,000 sq. ft. factory previously occupied by Fieldcrest in Kilkenny. Approximately 160,000 sq. ft. of this is now occupied by Kilkenny Textiles Mills Ltd. The company also has an option on a further 120,000 sq. ft. The remainder is being promoted by the IDA for additional industries.
The IDA have no plans at present to acquire any further land in Kilkenny or to construct further advance factories there.
604.
asked the Minister for Industry and Energy the plans the IDA has to acquire land and to provide advanced factories in Carlow; and the locations of these lands and factories.
I am informed by the Industrial Development Authority that they are actively promoting two industrial sites in Carlow town totalling 26 acres, together with a site of 2.7 acres at Muine Bheag.
In addition, the IDA plan to provide five factory units of 1,000 sq. ft. each in Carlow town as part of their commitment to the further development of small industry. Work on the construction of these units is expected to commence later this year.
The IDA are also promoting, in conjunction with the Irish Sugar Company, the 83,000 sq. ft. Erin Foods factory for a suitable alternative industry.