Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 October 2004
65 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the measures being undertaken to find replacement jobs for the Killarney area of County Kerry following the announcement of job losses at companies (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23626/04]
View answerI am very disappointed at the recent job losses in Killarney, including those at Transmould and Scott Tools, and I am conscious of the adverse effects on the workers concerned and on their families.
Finding alternative employment for the workers affected is a priority for FÁS and the State development agencies. FÁS has contacted both companies and will make available its full range of support services including skills analysis, jobs placement, guidance and counselling interviews and identification of training needs and courses.
IDA Ireland continues to actively promote the south Kerry region to potential investors from a variety of sectors, including manufacturing and international services, through its network of overseas offices and project divisions, with every effort being made to secure new investments for the area. In addition to targeting potential new projects, IDA Ireland continues to work with the existing base of companies in the region with a view to supporting such companies with potential expansions and diversification of activities.
The agency has also completed site development works on its business and technology park in Killarney and is actively promoting this for new investment, including a new building facility in the park. These investments will put the area in a position to compete more strongly for inward investment in the ICT, software and international services sectors.
The major decentralisation programme announced in the budget includes 165 jobs to be relocated to Killarney. This move demonstrates the Government's commitment to balanced regional development and will provide a further boost to enterprise development in Kerry. The designation of Killarney as a hub town under the Government's national spatial strategy adds to the attractiveness of the county for overseas and indigenous investment.
I can assure the Deputy that the State development agencies, under the auspices of my Department, will continue to work closely together and with local interests in promoting the Killarney area for additional investment and job creation.
