Vol. 404 No. 1
32 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the number of jobs in the leather and tanning industry in this country at present; the estimated number of potential jobs in this area; and the plans he has to attain this potential.
The level of employment in companies engaged in the processing of hides and skins and related activities in the State is about 340 persons at present. It is estimated, in the context of a recent study of the sector, that there is potential to create a further 100-150 jobs in the industry. The industrial development agencies are vigorously pursuing the implementation of a specific strategy aimed at bringing these jobs on stream in the short term future. Indeed, grant negotiations with two potential promoters are at an advanced stage as of now. As these discussions are particularly sensitive at present, it would be inappropriate for me to comment in greater detail for the moment.
