asked the Minister for Industry, Trade, Commerce and Tourism the efforts he has made to prevent the closure of McElroy's furniture factory at Castleblayney, County Monaghan.
Written Answers. - County Monaghan Factory.
499.
The closure of the undertaking referred to was due to the extent of losses sustained by it in recent years. The primary responsibility for any company's performance rests, of course, with its owners and management. However, the state agencies involved with the furniture industry have given all appropriate assistance possible to McElroys since its establishment. The Industrial Development Authority is continuing its efforts to secure a takeover of the assets with a view to the resumption of manufacturing and employment. Some preliminary interest has been expressed and this is being actively pursued by the relevant state agencies.