asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that the former alcohol factory, since diverted to starch production at Labbadish, Manorcunningham, County Donegal, has been closed down, and that upwards of forty workers have been let go from employment; and whether there are any plans to put this factory back into production of some kind, so as to keep the men employed and to prevent the factory from becoming derelict.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Closing of Labbadish Factory.
3.
I am informed by Ceimici Teoranta that the Labbadish factory was opened for the manufacture of starch for the season 1958/59 on the 15th October, 1958, but that sufficient supplies of potatoes were not received to enable the factory to keep working and it was necessary, therefore, to cease operations on the 5th November, 1958. Employment on the manufacture of starch at this factory is seasonal and normally extends for about 12 weeks of the year during the months November to January. The factory, which is equipped for the production of starch, is not readily adaptable for alternative use and is being maintained in perfect condition. There is no question of allowing the factory to become derelict and the company hope that the supplies of potatoes coming forward in 1959/60 will permit of an extended starch campaign.