asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the number and locations of vacant advance factories in County Clare; the efforts which are being made to secure industries for each factory; and if he has any plans to build further factories in County Clare in 1986.
Written Answers. - Clare Vacant Advance Factories.
40.
(Limerick East): I am informed that in addition to the former Celtic Ceramics premises in Kilrush, which is the subject of a separate question by the Deputy, there are other factory units ranging in size from 750 sq. ft. to 57,545 sq. ft. unallocated and available for industrial purposes in County Clare. These premises are located in Shannon, Ennis, Kilrush, Miltown Malbay, Kilkee, Kilmihil, Kildysart, Lisdoonvarna and Killaloe. There are a further 22 units which are vacant at present but which have been allocated for projects.
The Shannon Free Airport Development Company Limited — and the Industrial Development Authority where appropriate — are actively promoting all the unallocated premises for industrial projects. I have asked these agencies to intensify their efforts in this regard. There are no plans at present to provide further advance factories in County Clare. However, should a project arise for which no suitable premises is available, the provision of a purpose built unit would be considered.
41.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the plans he has for the vacant buildings, formerly Celtic Ceramics, at Cappa, Kilrush, County Clare; and if he will examine the possibility of developing a small enterprise development centre at the premises and site.
(Limerick East): I am informed by Shannon Free Airport Development Company Limited that they have decided to modify, subject to planning permission, 5,000 square feet of the former Celtic Ceramics premises for use as a fish processing centre. The remainder of the premises, which is being promoted both by IDA and Shannon Free Airport Development Company for suitable industrial projects, will be redeveloped on a phased basis in line with demand. Additionally, Shannon Free Airport Development Company are currently examining the feasibility of developing a “work space” type small industry centre in Kilrush and will consider the suitability of part of the former Celtic Ceramics premises for this purpose.