asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will make a statement on the future of the Condensed Milk Company factory at Lansdowne, Limerick, in view of the apprehension of the workers there for the future.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers (Resumed). - Limerick Milk Factory.
46.
I have been discussing with interested co-operatives and milk producer representatives the terms on which the Lansdowne factory and the Dairy Disposal Company's creamery properties in County Clare might best become part of the co-operative creamery system in the southern area. I hope to be in a position to announce a satisfactory outcome at an early date.
As I have already indicated repeatedly, adequate provision will be made for safeguarding the employment of the Lansdowne workers.
Surely this question has been under examination for a sufficiently long time now? Is the Minister not aware that this question had been adequately settled to the satisfaction of all concerned two years ago? What has gone wrong in the meantime?
I wish I had found it settled when I came into office. I have spent a lot of time on it.
The machinery was all ready for the Cratloe plant.
I know that the machinery is ready and has been delivered but agreement has not been reached. I hope we will get agreement soon.