asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the implications for the Irish food industry, and especially sugar manufacturing of the takeover by the Italian food combine Feruzzi of the wheat industries plant in Ringaskiddy in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ringaskiddy (Cork) Plant Takeover.
12.
The matter has been examined by the Department of Agriculture and Food and I am satisfied that the proposed takeover will not have any significant effects on the food industry or on sugar manufacturing.
In view of the fact that Feruzzi are a major sugar dealer and that, a few years ago it was necessary to investigate the previous company who were engaged in the manufacture of a high fructose corn syrup which could be a substitute for sugar as a sweetener, has this matter been fully investigated? Will the Minister say categorically that it has no implications for sugar manufacture in this country?
The Department of Agriculture and Food have been informed by the sugar company that the Ringaskiddy plant is to be taken over by Feruzzi, the Italian company, in September next. The sugar company are not aware of any major plans by Feruzzi to expand glucose production at Ringaskiddy. The Irish glucose market is very competitive and all major manufacturers are represented. In our discussions with the sugar company they informed the Department that they were not worried that the market for sugar and sugar products will be affected by this development.