asked the Minister for Industry, Trade, Commerce and Tourism if he is aware that the number of people engaged in industrial employment in Kilkenny is the lowest in the south-east; if, in view of this, he will declare Kilkenny a disaster area and make special increased industrial grants available for the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - County Kilkenny Industrial Employment.
363.
I am aware of the unemployment situation in County Kilkenny and I am assured by the Industrial Development Authority that County Kilkenny is being actively promoted as a location for new domestic and overseas industries.
The establishment of Kilkenny Textile Mills last year in part of the former Fieldcrest factory has provided major employment opportunities in Kilkenny. The IDA is continuing to promote the space remaining in the Fieldcrest site for suitable new manufacturing industries. In addition the IDA has a 5,400 sq. ft. advance factory in Freshford and over 30 acres of land at six locations in County Kilkenny available for future industrial development.