Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 23 May 2001

Vol. 536 No. 6

Written Answers. - Grant Payments.

Michael Ring

Question:

189 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands the amount invested by Údarás na Gaeltachta in a factory (details supplied) in Belmullet, County Mayo; if she has satisfied herself with the employment numbers that were agreed; if she has further satisfied herself that this company is paying the minimum wage level; if she will provide a detailed breakdown of the contract agreed with the company in relation to the workers; and if the company is honouring its commitment with regard to the grant aid given by the State. [15234/01]

Minister of State at the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Mary Coughlan)

I understand from Údarás na Gaeltachta that: a grant-aid package of £1,156,295 was sanctioned for the company in question and for an associated company, Páirc Nua Teoranta; it is satisfied with the number employed in these companies to date given that they are not yet fully operational; it has received confirmation that the terms of the Minimum Wage Act, 2000, are being complied with; the normal standard agreement has been executed with the companies; and it is satisfied that the companies are honouring their commitments under the agreement.