asked the Minister for Industry, Trade, Commerce and Tourism the plans, if any, the Government has to reduce unemployment in Cork north west; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - North West Cork Unemployment.
394.
This reply concerns itself solely with industrial employment. I am informed that the Industrial Development Authority is working closely with existing industry in north west Cork to maintain existing employment and to increase future employment opportunities. A number of companies which established industrial projects with IDA assistance in Kanturk, Millstreet, Newmarket and Macroom over the past couple of years have provided new employment opportunities in the Cork north west area and it is anticipated that certain of these will provide additional employment opportunities over the coming years.
The IDA, as part of its regionalisation of services to small industry, has appointed an officer to deal exclusively with small industry development in the north west Cork/north Kerry area. The IDA has sites available for industrial development in Kanturk, Millstreet, Newmarket and Macroom. In addition, the IDA is actively promoting a 33,400 sq. ft. factory at Kanturk for a suitable new industry.