Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 28 Mar 1990

Vol. 397 No. 6

Written Answers. - County Kildare Project.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

106 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food, having regard to the statement released by his Department on the occasion of the announcement of the Agra trading project for Newbridge, County Kildare, if he is satisfied that sufficient market research was carried out prior to the launching of the project; if a feasibility study was undertaken; if so, the cost of same; if the objectives including employment potential as indicated at the time of the launch were realistic; the means by which local public confidence can be restored in such announcements; if his attention has been drawn to any further proposals for job creation in the area in view of the ready availability of a highly skilled workforce, modern infrastructure and an environment which is conducive to investment, as in the case of Newbridge; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. O'Kennedy)

I understand that, prior to the announcement of the project in March 1989, the company concerned had undertaken up to three years work on technology development, packaging presentation, market research and brand development. It is not appropriate for commercial reasons, to disclose the cost to the company of that work. While it was recognised that the project was an ambitious one, the objectives including employment potential of the project and its initiative were the best that could be made at the time. The securing of alternative industries for Newbridge is being actively pursued by the IDA.