Vol. 555 No. 2
148 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if, in the wake of a number of job losses in Killarney in recent months and the worsening unemployment situation in south and west Kerry, she will visit the constituency to meet business leaders and public representatives from the area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18317/02]
I regret the job losses in the south and west Kerry area in recent months and the adverse impact on the workers affected, their families and the local economy. FÁS has been active in seeking alternative employment and in providing training and re-training.
The State development agencies continue to promote strongly south and west Kerry in the attraction of inward investment and the development and expansion of indigenous industry, including small industry. The Government is committed to ensuring the most equitable regional distribution of job opportunities and I have impressed on the development agencies the importance of making even greater efforts in this field.
I will be happy to meet with business leaders and public representatives during my next visit to the Kerry area. However, an existing heavy schedule of official commitments would not make it possible for me to visit the area in the immediate future.
Question No. 149 answered with Question No. 142.
