Vol. 486 No. 1
172 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the prospects, if any, there are for securing an industrial project for a vacant factory (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1445/98]
174 Mr. Finucane asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps, if any, which have been taken to date in 1998 by the IDA arising from a commitment given on 29 November 1995, following the closure of the Neodata plants in Kilmallock and Newcastle West, that it would seek alternative plants for both locations; and the future action, if any, the IDA will take on behalf of both of these locations. [1515/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 172 and 174 together.
The two properties in Kilmallock and Newcastle West, which were owned by Neodata, have been put up for sale by a local auctioneer. Agreement is currently being finalised with a purchaser for the Newcastle West facility.
FÁS courses have been undertaken by some ex-Neodata employees, while others have found alternative employment in Limerick city. Companies located there are continually seeking employees with the skills of the ex-Neodata workforce. My announcement last week of a major investment by Dell in Limerick should very significantly enhance the employment prospects of those still seeking work.
While interest in the Kilmallock plant has not to date led to a new industry locating there, IDA Ireland representatives have had a number of meetings with the local community during the course of 1997 and 1998. I met the local Kilmallock community group in November 1997, together with IDA Ireland and SFADCo personnel. At this meeting it was agreed that an economic study group would be established to evaluate the economic strengths and weaknesses of the town, including a breakdown of skills availability. A meeting of this group is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, 4 February 1998.
I can assure the Deputy that IDA Ireland will continue to market west Limerick to potential overseas investors and is fully conscious of the importance of achieving a satisfactory outcome in this regard.
