Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 15 Nov 2001

Vol. 544 No. 2

Written Answers. - Job Losses.

Rory O'Hanlon

Question:

69 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to the number of jobs lost in three companies (details supplied) in County Monaghan; the steps being taken to ensure that new jobs are provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28447/01]

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

I am aware of the jobs situation in County Monaghan as are the industrial development agencies under the aegis of my Department. FÁS is providing, and will continue to provide, a proactive response in terms of guidance counselling and training-re-training to those people who have lost their jobs.

Enterprise Ireland's focus is on developing industry clusters in areas such as prepared con sumer foods and specialised engineering and it is currently working with a number of new business start-ups. Two relatively new companies, Combi Lift Limited and Aisle Master Limited are already established in the area. Under Enterprise Ireland's remit, funding has also been approved for an enterprise centre in Ballybay and other enterprise centres are planned for the county. Community enterprise centres are also planned to assist new business start-ups.

IDA Ireland has implemented a new strategy to benefit the entire Border region and, in particular, towns such as Monaghan. This new strategy involves an increased marketing focus. As part of this strategy, IDA has a 30 acre business park in Monaghan town. The process to bring the park up to the standard required to attract foreign direct investment is now nearing completion.

The availability of an advance factory is also important. Planning permission has been secured for the construction of a 25,000 sq.ft. factory and tenders have been invited from private developers to finance and build the facility. Furthermore, IDA Ireland is working closely with Monaghan County Enterprise Board. The board intends to provide a facility for investment in teleservices-software development as part of the Armagh-Monaghan digital corridor initiative. This will be promoted through IDA Ireland's regional and overseas offices.

The availability of suitably motivated and educated staff is a key element in attracting quality employment to the area and we want to ensure that relevant courses and training are provided. In this regard, recent developments in Dundalk IT and Regional Development Centre have strengthened the support service to local industry. The college is a key resource in the development of hi-tech enterprise in the region.