It was with regret that I learnt of the announcement by APW on 6 January 2005 that it plans to cease production at its plant in Tallaght, County Dublin, by June 2005. While IDA Ireland has had discussions with the company, it is understood that its decision about its Tallaght operations is final. The company has stated that it intends to maintain its operations in Galway and Cork. On 7 January, FÁS contacted the company and offered its full range of services to staff in advance of being made redundant. In addition to the services being provided from its Tallaght office, the agency offered to make its staff available on site to give vocational guidance and help. I understand that the company subsequently expressed an interest in having a presentation from FÁS at a mutually convenient date.
The industrial development agencies are continuing to market the Tallaght area for new jobs and investment. Tallaght benefits from having a third level institute, the Tallaght Institute of Technology, and excellent infrastructural facilities at Citywest and Grange Castle in Clondalkin. Following an agreement last year, Enterprise Ireland is supporting the development of business incubation space at the institute. When the facility has been completed, it is expected to generate quality start-up enterprises.
Wyeth Biopharma employs approximately 700 people in Clondalkin, a figure that is expected to rise to 1,300 by the end of 2005. A number of other projects have been approved for the area. I am satisfied that the strong infrastructural support already in place, including the Luas line, will continue to attract companies to Tallaght and its environs.
