andMr. Governey asked the Minister for Finance if he will make a statement in relation to the future of a firm (name supplied) in Carlow; if increased employment will be available during the coming season; and if prospects for expansion can be expected in view of the importance of local employment and for the economic running of this plant.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Carlow Industry.
43.
The firm in question has serious financial problems mainly because of difficulties in obtaining satisfactory prices on export markets. Temporary employment will be available during the coming season but not to the same extent as in recent years. There are no immediate prospects for expansion and at this stage I cannot say with any certainty what the possibilities are in the longer term.
Can the Minister say if there is any possibility of increased employment in the firm mentioned; and can he say what is the position regarding employees of the firm? Further, is he aware that the campaign during the coming year will be reduced to a maximum of eight or ten weeks?
I have indicated already that there will be additional temporary employment during the coming season but that it will not be on the same scale as it was in the past. Regarding the longer term, I cannot say definitely what are the prospects but the Deputy can rest assured that it is the Government's intention to ensure as far as possible in the longer term that this particular industry will be put on a viable basis so that there will be a greater degree of security for employees than there has been in the past.
Can the Minister assure me that this plant at Carlow will continue as Erin Foods? Can he say whether it is true that the plant may close down and that negotiations are in progress now regarding its taking over by somebody else?
I am not aware of any such suggestion.
In fairness to the workers concerned will the Minister guarantee that the plant will continue in full operation?
The Deputy heard what I had to say on the matter and there is nothing further I can add at this stage.