Jim Higgins
Question:35 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment the number of manufacturing jobs created in 1993 in the area of import substitution; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Import Substitution.
I am informed that in so far as the IDA and SFADCo are concerned, the two industrial development agencies coming within my area of responsibility, the combined total number of gross manufacturing jobs created in 1993 was 14,300. I understand that this figure is derived from the 1993 employment sureveys of the agencies involved.
The agencies have advised me that they do not have available a breakdown of the 14,300 jobs figure showing the number resulting from import substitution.
In this connection, I am advised that while some projects are approved solely on the basis of import substitution, the majority would be approved on the basis of a combination of import substitution and exports. In these circumstances, the Deputy will appreciate that it would be difficult for the agencies to disaggregate in a meaningful way those jobs resulting solely from import substitution.
I would emphasise, however, that most grant agreements include a performance clause linking grant payments to job performance on the ground.