asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will outline in detail the content of the Government guarantee for the Tuam sugar factory. County Galway, as stated by him and by his Minister of State since coming into office; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Tuam Sugar Factory.
180.
The following is the text of a statement about Tuam sugar factory, which was issued by me on 20 December 1983:
The Minister for Agriculture, Mr. Austin Deasy, announced today that the Government have considered the rationalisation programme submitted by Comhlucht Siúicre Éireann and have decided that the proposal to cease the production of sugar at Tuam should not be proceeded with. A substantial saving in the cost of operating the Tuam factory must, however, be achieved and this will involve a significant reduction in the workforce. The detailed arrangements for achieving the necessary saving are to be worked out urgently by the Company.
An additional £20 million of share capital is to be provided shortly for the Company, bringing the total issued capital to £57 million out of the £75 million authorised.