Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 30 Mar 1999

Vol. 502 No. 6

Written Answers. - Job Protection.

John Perry

Question:

70 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to the letter sent by a company (details supplied) to its employees in Manorhamilton, County Leitrim, in which it stated that it would be making a decision on the long-term future in the town over the next four to six months; if her attention has further been drawn to the negative impact and unrest this is causing to its staff; if she will directly contact this company in advance to ensure that all existing jobs are retained; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8737/99]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

The company in Manorhamilton is being evaluated by its parent company in the US in the context of an overall restructuring of the latter's European operations aimed at improving operational and financial performance. The operation in Manorhamilton is attempting to overcome serious difficulties relating mainly to inadequate sales volumes and high transportation costs. The evaluation process is expected to take four to six months.

Developments are being closely monitored by senior IDA Ireland management who are in regular contact with both the chief executive officer of the US parent company and the chief operating officer for Europe and are planning to meet them in the near future to discuss a range of issues relating to the operation in Manorhamilton.