Vol. 508 No. 1
351 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of jobs lost, permanent and seasonal, as a result of the closure of the Universal Foods Plant in Midleton earlier in 1999; the progress, if any, of his efforts to secure a replacement industry for the site; the situation regarding its future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18347/99]
352 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if there is any facility for producing frozen vegetables; the plans, if any, he has in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18348/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 351 and 352 together.
The company's decision to cease the processing of vegetables at its Midleton facility has resulted in the loss of 65 full time jobs and 80 seasonal jobs. My Department and Enterprise Ireland are continuing their efforts to secure a replacement industry for the facility. Potential investors have been advised about the plant and prospective projects will command urgent attention.
The horticulture processing sector in this country covers a wide range of processing activities for different marketing segments. In that context, the Deputy may wish to note that, in its future action plan for the food industry, the food industry development group identified the sector as one meriting investment priority.
