asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if there are any plans in his office for the establishment of further industries in Athlone, Mullingar, Moate, Castle-pollard, Kilbeggan, Kinnegad, Delvin or other towns in Westmeath; and if he is aware of the need for industries to stop emigration from the county.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Westmeath Industries.
30.
I am aware of a proposal for the extension of an existing industry in County Westmeath but, as details of industrial proposals are confidential, I cannot give any further information about it. I am aware of the need for industries in County Westmeath and I can assure the Deputy that any sound proposals by local or other interests will receive all possible assistance from my Department and from the Industrial Development Authority. As the Deputy knows, generous State incentives are provided to encourage the establishment and development of industries in all areas but it is for private enterprise to take advantage of these incentives.
It may be for private enterprise to initiate the work, but when the Minister comes back from America and other places and announces the proposed establishment of three, four or half a dozen factories, does he ever think of the Midlands? He never seems to announce that he has brought a new factory home from America for the Midlands.
I opened a very worthwhile one in County Westmeath not so long ago.
And we shall open more.
There is very little sign of them. The people are emigrating. There is only one for all of Westmeath.
The Deputy has not got the information up to date.
The Minister gave me the information. If he has not got it up to date it is not my fault.