I propose to take all five Private Notice Questions together.
As a result of the need to balance production with demand, Apple Computer in Cork has laid off 70 temporary workers. Separately, Apple Computer Incorporated has announced in recent months its intention to lay off 1,300 of its 14,000 employees as part of a rationalisation programme. This rationalisation programme has not to date affected Apple's facility in Cork.
As I indicated to the House, I am in constant touch with the situation in Apple and continue to review the question of meeting Apple's US management. In this regard, I assure the House I am anxious to respond in whatever way would best assist Apple in Cork. Some time ago I arranged to visit Apple management in Cork and this meeting will take place shortly.
The Apple facility in Cork has progressively strengthened its competitiveness and, with the help of IDA Ireland, has added additional functions in the areas of software, quality assurance and research and development to its operations. These undoubtedly will be positive factors in any assessment of the future role of Apple's facility in Cork.
Mitsumi Ireland Limited has been in operation in Mallow since November 1990. The company manufactures computer keyboards and distributes floppy disk drives and CD-ROM units. Due to price competition the market for the company's keyboard products had declined. As a result the company has decided to make 82 people redundant over the next three months.
IDA Ireland will continue to work with Mitsumi Ireland with a view to maximising employment at the Irish operation. IDA Ireland and Forbairt will continue to support the electronics sector in Cork with a view to maximising employment in the sector.