asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that the IDA have almost completed the building of an advance factory at Birr, County Offaly; and if any further developments have taken place in regard to the siting of an industry there which is urgently needed in the area.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Birr Advance Factory.
74.
I am aware that the construction of the advance factory in Birr is due for completion in March next.
The IDA have been making particular efforts to attract industry to Birr, including a project for the advance factory, but I understand that so far no definite commitment has been received.
Could the Minister give me any information in regard to the number of industrialists or potential industrialists the IDA have brought to visit this advance factory site in Birr?
I have not got the figure. I know that in view of the situation in Birr it is looked on as a place for which particular effort is being made by the IDA. We recognise that there is a difficulty there. I might inform the Deputy and also the public that the IDA have also purchased a further 15 acre site in Birr for industrial development. This is evidence of our awareness and our concern, but we have not got a firm project at this time.
The news that an extra 15 acre site has been purchased will be welcome. Is the Minister aware, and are the IDA fully aware, that there is a large number of skilled people in the town and that over many years this town has suffered serious loss of employment due to a number of factories closing? Will he continue to make the special effort which he appears to be making?
We are indeed so aware. The advance factory is 24,000 square feet which is a little bigger than many of the advance factories. Fifteen acres is a very substantial lump of land for industrial development. Both of these are evidence of our awareness and our concern.