Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 18 Jun 2002

Vol. 553 No. 2

Written Answers. - Company Closures.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

136 Mr. Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her plans to facilitate the securing of a replacement industry and replacement employment following the closure of a company (details supplied) in County Louth; and the assistance to be offered to the workers laid off. [13737/02]

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

The company was established in 1978 to manufacture heat exchanger coil assemblies for air conditioning and refrigeration equipment. Last year the company agreed to work with Enterprise Ireland to draw up a short list of buyers or equity investors for the business. This was not successful and unfortunately the company was forced to close in May 2002. Enterprise Ireland continues to be available to assist the company in any way possible.

The employees of the company have been con tacted by FÁS and the process of registration and intensive support is well advanced. The FÁS services include vocational training, occupational guidance and job placement. They will continue to work with all the employees until suitable alternative opportunities are found.

Enterprise Ireland, in conjunction with the other development agencies, will continue to try and source new initiatives in relation to replacement employment for County Louth. Indeed, IDA Ireland has begun site development work at its new business and technology park in Drogheda where it has secured planning permission for a number of new buildings.

Furthermore, it is envisaged that a significant information and communications technology and knowledge-based industry sector will be established in the north-east. Centred on Dundalk Institute of Technology and supported by Enterprise Ireland, this initiative involves the key players in economic, educational and infrastructural developments in County Louth. The objective of this initiative is to create a vibrant and sustainable knowledge based cluster of businesses offering high quality job opportunities in the north-east.