Vol. 472 No. 3
24 Mr. E. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment the industrial plan, if any, he has for Cork city and County Clare following the recent losses of industries in these areas; his views on the designation of industrial zones; and the Government's plans, if any, in relation to industrial land sales. [23188/96]
The location of industry in particular areas of the country is a matter for the day-to-day administration of the agencies under my remit and not one in which I have any direct function.
Specifically in relation to the areas mentioned, however, as I indicated in reply to a question from Deputy O'Keeffe on 22 October last, Cork city and its environs are increasingly well placed as a highly marketable location, as evidenced by 5,579 overseas jobs in County Cork over the last five years compared to a figure of 14,106 for County Dublin. I indicated in that reply that IDA Ireland is acutely aware of its responsibility to each region and is achieving a reasonable spread of investment across the country. I am satisfied that Forbairt and Shannon Development have a similar approach, and it goes without saying that the relevant county enterprise boards will be doing their utmost for their respective areas.
In relation to the designation of industrial zones, County Clare already has one of the most significant in Ireland in the Shannon free zone. And Cork has three zones designated under the enterprise areas scheme. My view on designation is that this is a valuable way to target incentives at specific areas of need, but only retains its usefulness in the context of targeting and selectivity. Without this, the benefits are dissipated, with the potential for losses to the Exchequer without corresponding gains.
Last October, I announced plans in relation to industrial land sales under which (i) existing properties will be offered for sale, using commercial criteria, to sitting tenants and (ii) the private sector will have the lead role in the provision of industrial holdings. I am arranging to forward a copy of the relevant press release to the Deputy.
