asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the reason there are only 22 persons employed in a company (details supplied) in the industrial estate, Ballyspillane, Killarney, County Kerry, having regard to the fact that this factory was originally constructed and designed to accommodate staff of 440 persons; if he will make a statement on the matter indicating if it is now expected that this target will be reached; and, if not, the reason.
Written Answers. - Killarney (Kerry) Company.
52.
Limerick East): As the Deputy is already aware, there was a delay in the commencement of production at this factory because the promoters had, for commercial reasons, to review the range of products proposed for manufacture. Although production began in early 1984 the company has been unable to date to develop as originally planned and it is not, therefore, envisaged that there will be any immediate increase in the number at present employed. To date a building designed to accommodate 220 for phase one of the project has been completed; phase two has not commenced.
I can assure the Deputy that the IDA will seek to ensure that the company can take advantage of the expected upturn in the electronics industry worldwide in the event that this results in increased demand for the company's products. It will be appreciated, however, that the development of the facility is essentially a matter for the company itself and that the company must plan its strategy on the basis of sound commercial criteria.