asked the Minister for Industry and Energy the present position regarding the attraction of industrial projects to vacant advance factory units at Racecourse Road, Roscommon, County Roscommon.
Ceisteanna—Questions . Oral Answers . - Roscommon Advance Factory Units .
14.
: I am informed by the Industrial Development Authority that they are actively promoting their 4 × 3,000 sq. ft. cluster units at Racecourse Road in Roscommon for suitable industrial projects.
In addition the IDA have 27.5 acres of land in Roscommon town and are also promoting a 24,000 sq. ft. advance factory which has been built under a private finance arrangement with the IDA.
In this context, and indeed in relation to available IDA factory premises generally, this promotional effort involved:
1. The dissemination of information concerning the availability of IDA factories and facilities to IDA overseas and project staff.
2. Special attention being given to areas in which IDA have factories when the itinerary of overseas promoters are being arranged.
: In view of the unemployment situation in Roscommon, I suggest that the IDA would be requested to give this area special consideration due to the effects of high unemployment among the people there. The accommodation is quite adequate. It was provided by the previous administration. I hope the IDA can get something there fairly quickly.
: As I said in my reply, the IDA are making every effort. It is worth knowing that in 1982 the IDA organised 500 first time itineraries and the authority's plans for this year provide for a further large number. It must also be appreciated that the world economy is going through a very difficult period and the internationally mobile funds available for investment are limited. It is the Government's intention to reintroduce a climate suitable for industrial expansion which will enable the IDA to be successful in winning new industrial projects for Ireland.