Vol. 354 No. 12
asked the Minister for Industry, Trade, Commerce and Tourism if he is aware of the imminent closure of the Burlington Textile Plant at Gilloge, County Clare, which will disemploy 250 workers; the proposals he has to keep the company open; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
535.
asked the Minister for Industry, Trade, Commerce and Tourism the efforts he is making to protect the jobs at the Burlington Textile Plant at Gilloge, Clonlara, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
A Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 534 and 535 together.
I was extremely disappointed to be informed recently by representatives of the company that its plant in Gilloge, County Clare, will cease production in mid-February 1985, and thereafter will be retained on a "care and maintenance" basis. The company have indicated that the future potential use of the plant is being kept under continuous review in the light of future opportunities.
Whilst I regret very much this development and particularly its impact on the workers, there is, realistically nothing I can do at this stage to bring about a reconsideration by the company of its decision.
I have, in these circumstances, no proposals for keeping the plant open. The IDA, and my Department, will, however, continue to maintain close contact with the company on the further development of its Irish operations.
