I should like to express my thanks to the Chair for giving me the opportunity to raise the subject matter of these questions on the Adjournment. I sought this opportunity to draw the attention of the Government, the Minister for Industry and Commerce and the public to the serious and unsatisfactory economic situation that has developed in west Clare. This has arisen because of the closure of two factories. When I raised the question of establishing new industries in that area some time ago I received a reply similar to that which was read out today, that negotiations were in progress and it was hoped to have some definite proposals in the near future. Nothing has happened since. In fact, since the Coalition came into office nothing has been done to improve the position in the area.
There is uncertainty about establishing new industries and workers in long established industries in Kilrush are on short time. In that town 1,500 people sign for unemployment benefit and assistance weekly. The pay-related benefit scheme does not apply to most of those people because they did not have the necessary number of insurance stamps to qualify. I expressed my concern about a factory which closed down some months ago in a question to the Minister for Industry and Commerce on 21st January last. I asked that Minister if he was aware of the concern amongst employees of a company in Kilrush regarding future employment prospects at a factory in that town. The Minister for Transport and Power, who replied on behalf of the Minister for Industry and Commerce on that occasion, stated:
I am aware of the difficulties being experienced by this company and I can understand the concern of the employees. Initial problems have now been resolved but due to a downturn in demand the company has had to cut back its production programme with a consequent reduction in its workforce and the introduction of short-time working. Some further reductions are expected before the company's operations can be stabilised. The Industrial Development Authority are working closely with the company in assisting it through the current difficulties.