Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 4 Feb 1997

Vol. 474 No. 3

Written Answers. - Industrial Development.

James Leonard

Question:

236 Mr. Leonard asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment if he will review his Department policy and IDA policy in relation to the erection of advance factories, particularly in the Border region, in view of the increase in unemployment figures. [2979/97]

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

IDA Ireland was given responsibility for the industrial property portfolio in January 1996 and current policy in relation to the provision of advance factory space is that it will in future be provided by the private sector. IDA Ireland will then actively promote and market such buildings. This is in line with the policy recommended by the Forfás board following a detailed consultancy report and as endorsed, after careful consideration, by me.

There are also incentives under the business expansion scheme to encourage the provision of advance factories. IDA actively encourages the private sector to utilise this scheme in selected locations.

To make this type of investment attractive to the private sector, IDA Ireland seeks to ensure that the supply of advance factories in any area matches the demand. This ensures that factories are not vacant for long periods and that the private investors receive an early return on investments.

The decision on where to situate advance factories is informed by the needs of locating projects for sophisitcated commercial and business environments. Accordingly they must not only meet exacting standards in terms of land and buildings, but must also provide top class road, rail, sea and air access. Issues such as the availability of natural gas or high volumes of water may also be specific requirements for some individual industrial processes.

IDA will continue to work in partnership with the local authorities and the private sector to ensure that they are fully aware of the needs of modern mobile investment projects. It is in the interests of each local authority to make adequate provision for sell-serviced industrial lands if new projects and increased employment are to be secured for their areas.

I have given detailed information on specific developments concerning plans for advance factory provision in the Border counties in my reply to the question from Deputy Brendan Smith on today's Order Paper.