Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 November 2021
51. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason a foreign company based in a rural area in Ireland which employs ten persons and plans to expand to 40 employees is not deemed suitable for IDA Ireland investment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54829/21]
View answerI understand that the company referred to by the Deputy not currently a client of IDA Ireland.
IDA Ireland offers a wide range of financial assistance to companies wishing to locate and/or expand their existing operation in Ireland including but not restricted to: Capital, Employment, Training, as well as R&D and environmental supports.
In addition to supporting potential investors through financial supports, IDA Ireland can facilitate site visits to locations, business parks, office space, companies, business clusters, recruiters, banks and regulators. It can also offer support with visas, schools, electricity, or executive accommodations or whatever matches the requirements of a potential company looking to locate in Ireland.
I am advised that IDA Ireland engaged with the company in early 2020 and the Agency outlined the minimum criteria companies must meet to become an IDA client, and that IDA would be happy to continue dialogue with the company and offer non- financial or ‘soft’ supports.
In this regard, I am informed that the IDA has conducted a number of virtual itineraries and calls providing assistance to the company the Deputy referred to; with introductions to peer companies, potential customers, research centres, service providers and other stakeholders such as the NTMA and SEAI.
IDA Ireland will continue to be available to the company as their circumstances progress.
It should also be noted that all funding approved by IDA Ireland is negotiated on a case-by-case basis considering the merits of each investment and in compliance with EU and Irish legislation.
