Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 1 Dec 1993

Vol. 436 No. 5

Written Answers. - Industrial Development Agencies.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

95 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment the progress, if any, that has been made in regard to implementing the new structures for the industrial development agencies provided for in the Industrial Development Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Enterprise and Employment (Mr. Quinn)

The Industrial Development Act, 1993 provides for the creation of three new autonomous bodies — Forfás, Forbairt and IDA Ireland. Each body has a distinct mission and goals. However, all three agencies will operate within a framework which facilitates co-operation and mutual support.

The Industrial Development Act, 1993 was enacted on 6 July 1993. Subsequent to the passing of the legislation, I established interim boards for the new bodies to begin to consider the various policy and logistical issues which need to be finalised before the new bodies can be formally established. These boards are operating in parallel with the existing IDA Authority and board and with the board of Eolas, thus ensuring that the needs of industry are fully addressed during the transitional period. In due course I intend that the interim boards will become the boards of the new bodies.

The Chief Executive Designate of IDA Ireland has now been nominated and an acting chief executive has been put in place for Forfás. The selection process for the Chief Executive of Forbairt is progressing.

A "blueprint" setting out the respective roles and responsibilities of the three bodies has been circulated to the relevant agency personnel, boards members and trade union representatives.

The House will be fully aware of the priority I attach to the establishment of the new bodies. However, I am equally conscious of the multitude of issues which must be addressed in order to ensure that the new bodies start off on the right foot and are fully equipped to function effectively from day one. My Department is currently working closely with IDA and Eolas to identify the issues and put in place the detailed arrangements leading up to formal establishment.

Any cutting of corners in the restructuring process would do a profound disservice to the new bodies, their staff and, indeed, the whole process of industrial development. At the same time I have sought to ensure that the transitional period between the passing of the Act and the Establishment Day could be utilised to productively take stock of the wider issues facing the new organisations and to examine the strategic options for their development. This is precisely what the interim boards have been doing.

I am confident that the constructive and dedicated efforts of the interim boards and the detailed planning process involving IDA, Eolas and my Department will allow Forfás, Forbairt and IDA Ireland to commence operations at the beginning of 1994.