Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 Jun 1996

Vol. 467 No. 5

Written Answers. - Job Creation.

Mary Coughlan

Question:

29 Miss Coughlan asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment the proposals, if any, he has to encourage job creation in Ballyshannon, County Donegal, in order to replace the jobs lost through the closure of Donegal Rubber; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9407/96]

Minister for Enterprise and Employment (Mr. R. Bruton)

The creation of jobs in any particular location in this country has been entrusted to the industrial development agencies. This is part and parcel of their day to day operations in which I have no function.

I understand that the decision to close Donegal Rubber was taken despite intensive top level meetings in Germany between the company's senior executives and IDA representatives. The closure of this enterprise was unfortunately part of an overall restructuring plan which also included substantial job cuts at other sister plants in Germany.

IDA Ireland has an intensive promotional campaign under way to attract new industry to the town as quickly as possible, not only for the Donegal Rubber plant but also for a number of 3,000 sq. ft. units, together with an 11 acre serviced site in Ballyshannon, which taken together or separately will assist in the marketing of the area for industrial development purposes.

With regard to the Donegal Rubber Plant there are approximately ten employees still employed who are involved in the removal of equipment and tidying of the facility. This should be completed by the end of June. The company has agreed to co-operate with IDA Ireland in making the premises available to any potential overseas investors interested in viewing the property. To date, just one potential investor has viewed the premises.

Forbairt are also actively promoting their total range of programmes and initiatives both in Ballyshannon and County Donegal in general. That organisation has recently provided all manufacturing and internationally trade services companies in the area with detailed information and the full range of Forbairt services available and has been working closely with indigenous companies in the Ballyshannon area with a view to increasing their sales and employment levels. It is drawing up a five year development strategy to address. Within its own remit, the employment creation needs of the region. Local community and business interest groups are participating in this process.

Donegal County Enterprise Board is actively engaged in promoting new small businesses in the industrial and service sectors in the area.