Tom Hayes
Question:168 Mr. Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of jobs created and lost in Tipperary town in 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14542/03]
Written Answers. - Job Creation.
The issue of job creation is a day to day operational issue for the industrial development agencies under the remit of my Department and not one in which I, as Minister, have any direct involvement. None of the agencies compile job statistics below county level.
The annual Forfás employment survey for 2002 shows that: IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland supported companies in Tipperary South Riding, there were 533 new jobs created and 123 lost in 2000; in 2001, there were 562 gains and 169 losses; and, in 2002, there were 308 gains and 142 losses. The corresponding figures for 2003 will not be available until early 2004.
I am satisfied that my Department through its agencies is working to address the employment needs of Tipperary town and Tipperary in general and promoting it as an area suited for further investment projects in the future.