asked the Minister for Industry and Energy if he is aware that the number of unemployed people on the live register at Drogheda employment exchange, County Louth, has increased by 30 per cent over the past year; and if he will outline the immediate steps he is taking to provide much needed employment in this area.
Written Answers. - Drogheda (Louth) Live Register.
183.
I share the Deputy's concern at the recent increase in unemployment in Drogheda.
I am informed by the Industrial Development Authority that they have, over the past year, secured replacement industries for a number of firms which have closed. These include the takeover of Gefa by Mitzi Ltd. and more recently the takeover of BMT Ltd. by Williamson Garment Ltd. The IDA are also working with the receiver of Irish Oil and Cake Mills to secure the takeover of the plant as a going concern.
In addition, the IDA have 34 acres of land in Drogheda and a 24,000 sq. ft. advance factory is under construction. The IDA will shortly begin construction of five 750 sq. ft. incubator units to encourage the development of small industry in the area. Two 50,000 sq. ft. units in the former Centronics factory area also being promoted for suitable industrial projects.