asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that since the completion of arterial drainage works in the Listowel area the unemployment position has become serious; and if, in view of the fact that suitable sites are available and that there is an abundance of local capital, the Industrial Development Authority will bring to the notice of industrialists the advantages to be gained from the establishment of industries in Listowel.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Listowel Unemployment.
As the Deputy will appreciate, the establishment of industries is primarily a matter for private enterprise and local initiative. If he, or the local interests concerned, will let me have particulars of the facilities at Listowel, including information as to factory sites and an estimate of the capital available locally for investment in industrial projects, I will arrange, through my Department and the Industrial Development Authority, to have Listowel brought to the notice of parties who submit proposals to me and who have not already selected a location. The Deputy will realise, of course, that the claims of other towns with facilities to offer are also brought to the notice of industrial promoters.
Should any interests submit to me a sound proposal for the establishment of an industry at Listowel, I will be glad to assist in any way possible in bringing it to fruition.