Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 May 2016
1171. Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation her progress in attracting inward investment into counties Sligo and Leitrim, via IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland, since the loss of 100 jobs at Elanco in County Sligo in January 2016; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9600/16]
View answer1175. Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the status of the marketing of the new advanced IDA Ireland facility in County Sligo which will be completed in December 2016; the number of companies which have indicated an interest in the facility; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9610/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1171 and 1175 together.
IDA Ireland markets Counties Sligo and Leitrim as part of its North West region. There are currently 38 multinational companies based in the region employing 5,379 people. This represents an increase of 291 jobs over the previous year, which reflects a strong performance by the existing client base.
The Advance Technology Building in Sligo is a c. 2,900 square metre unit, which is designed with sustainable Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accreditation. Planning permission has been granted and, after a full public procurement process, the contractor was appointed for the development of the project in January 2016. Work has already begun and the practical completion is targeted for December 2016. IDA Ireland is actively marketing the new advance facility through its global network, highlighting to potential clients the flexible property solutions on offer in Sligo.
Other steps are also being taken to attract investment to the North West region. This includes a trade and investment mission and networking lunch which will take place in Sligo on 18 May. The purpose of the event is for clients to meet and network with each other to encourage sales and business opportunities. To date, 18 multinational companies and 43 Enterprise Ireland companies are due to attend.
Marketing of any regional area, including Sligo and Leitrim, for foreign direct investment (FDI) is undertaken through IDA Ireland’s network of overseas offices. IDA Ireland actively incentivises and encourages investors to consider a range of potential locations in Ireland although the ultimate locations selected are always decided by the companies themselves.
