Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 1 May 1997

Vol. 478 No. 6

Written Answers. - Pig Slaughtering Plants.

Brendan Smith

Question:

183 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the proposals, if any, he has to restore the pig slaughtering capacity in the Border region to its previous level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11868/97]

Brendan Smith

Question:

184 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the progress, if any, made to date by his Department or the industrial development agencies in assisting the reopening of a factory (details supplied) in County Cavan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11869/97]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry (Mr. Yates)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 183 and 184 together.

The closure of pig slaughtering plants last year in the Border region was on the basis of commercial decisions taken by the managements concerned. Since these closures my Department, in liaison with Forbairt, has been closely monitoring the position. The facilities of my Department and those of Forbairt are available to any company wishing to commence operations in the pig sector, particularly in the Border region.

In relation to the specific plant referred to, I understand from Forbairt that a group has expressed an interest in reopening this plant and that preliminary discussions have taken place. There are suggestions that other groups may also be interested. However the resumption of activities at the plant in question, or indeed the establishment of any new facilities, is ultimately a matter for commercial decision by the parties involved.