asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the closing down of Birr Shoes Limited, which gave good employment to many families in Birr and district; what steps, if any, he proposes to take with a view to reopening the factory; and what alternative employment will be found for the displaced workers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Closure of Birr Shoe Factory.
23.
I am aware of the position of Birr Shoes Limited. Various proposals for keeping this factory open are under consideration at present but it is too early to say whether or not these efforts will be successful.
Will the Minister bear in mind that the only source of employment which those workers have is the shoe factory in which they are skilled workers and that if the factory does not reopen, they will have no alternative but to emigrate? Surely these considerations will prompt the Minister to be as helpful as possible, having regard to the special circumstances of the case?
Yes.
May we take it that a special grant will be given?
I think the Deputy may leave it as I have stated it here.