Vol. 571 No. 1
278 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the action she has taken to source alternative employment for the 315 employees who will lose their jobs at a company (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21308/03]
The recent announcement by Schneider Electric, Celbridge, County Kildare, to close its plant by the end of February 2004, with the loss of 315 jobs, is a major setback for the workforce, their families and the local community. It is a priority to ensure that everything possible is done to secure new investment and employment for the area.
In conjunction with the company, IDA Ireland will market the facility and an updated profile of the facility will be circulated to IDA's network of overseas offices. Enterprise Ireland is also involved with the company and other development agencies, including the Kildare County Enterprise Board, in identifying enterprise opportunities, as well as working with other agencies to improve the local business infrastructure.
FÁS met with the company on 19 September and the full range of services available was outlined. It was agreed that FÁS and a representative from the Department of Social and Family Affairs would meet with the workforce and outline the services available to those being made redundant. An analysis of labour market needs and the skills profile of the workforce will be undertaken by FÁS, which will endeavour to meet those needs through existing training programmes or by providing special programmes to meet specific needs.
