asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce when notification was received in his Department of the intention to close down a factory in Galway (name supplied); the date on which such closure took effect; and if any proposals have been received in the past week for the reopening of this concern.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Galway Factory Closure.
53.
I learned on 12th June, 1972, that it was intended to close this factory at the end of June, 1972. This information was confirmed by the company on 15th June, 1972. I understand that the factory ceased production on 28th June, 1972, but that some of the workers were retained beyond that date on a temporary basis.
There has been an approach to the IDA regarding the possibility of continuing, in Galway, the manufacture of the particular products and this is being considered.
Is the Minister aware that the workers concerned are prepared to operate the factory and, in view of that, will he indicate what possible sources of financial assistance can be given by the Government to recreate a viable industry there? I would like the Minister to tell us that something will be done in this respect and that the workers will not have to resort to the dole.
An approach was made by a former employee of the factory to the IDA with a view to carrying on at least some of the operations of the factory. At present the IDA are discussing this proposition with that man on behalf of some of the other workers. I cannot go beyond that at the moment except to say that the IDA will give every assistance to the person concerned to help him get the industry going again.
I appreciate that. Can the Minister indicate whether this man is one of the executives of the firm?
I understand he was the works manager of the firm.
Is the Minister aware that this man wanted the workers to come to Dublin and work here at the same business? These were people who had given up to 40 years service with the firm but this man expected them to move to Dublin.
Why do the workers not take over the factory?
I have said that they wished to do so.
The Deputy suggested that the Government should do something to help.
Can the Minister say whether the workers will be given some form of financial aid or would they need to be foreigners in order to qualify for assistance?
The IDA will be glad to assist anybody in getting the factory going again and it is always their policy to assist Irish interests in preference to foreign interests where Irish interests are capable of carrying on the work.
I am calling Question No. 54.
I appreciate that, too, but the IDA will only give them another factory site while what they need also is financial assistance. Is this financial assistance forthcoming?
The IDA will give whatever is the appropriate assistance in the particular circumstances.
Can the Minister indicate whether this assistance will be in the form of the dole?
The IDA do not pay dole.
If the workers cannot get the factory going, they will be forced to resort to the dole.
This cross-examination has continued for long enough.