Company Closures.

Wednesday, 3 March 2004

Questions (107)

Billy Timmins

Question:

178 Mr. Timmins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to the closure of a company (details supplied) in County Wicklow; if representations were made to her seeking assistance to keep the Nigerian market available for the export of soap; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7246/04]

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Written answers

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

I regret very much the job losses as a result of the company's decision to close. FÁS is offering its full range of services to the workers affected. I am advised by IDA Ireland that on 7 January 2004, the federal executive council of Nigeria's Government, as part of a protective trade policy, announced a list of banned import goods into Nigeria. In total, 41 items were placed on the list, including soap.

I understand that, as most of the output of the Arklow facility was destined for the Nigerian market, the owners felt they had no option but to announce the closure of the facility. No representations were made to me seeking assistance to keep the Nigerian market available for the export of soap.