Brendan Howlin
Ceist:61 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if any approaches have been made to him concerning the possible purchase of Ballybay Meats; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Ballybay Meats Case.
Ruairí Quinn
Ceist:67 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he intends to carry out any investigation into the collapse of Ballybay Meats; if he intends to publish the result of that investigation; if he will ensure that the plant is not sold to any individual until all the facts are known; if he will outline the involvement of a person (details supplied) in the company; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Dick Spring
Ceist:68 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will make a statement regarding involvement of the IDA, or any other agencies under his control, in Ballybay Meats.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 61, 67 and 68 together.
I am concerned of course that the firm should go into receivership so soon after the new plant was opened. Accordingly, I asked for a report from my Department and the IDA on certain aspects of the case. Because of the confidential nature of the Department's and the authority's dealings with individual companies it would be inappropriate to comment further on aspects of the matter. I can confirm that the IDA examined and evaluated the company in detail prior to grant approval and satisfied itself as to the commercial viability of the venture at the time. I understand that the receiver has advertised the plant for sale by tender. I should point out that the sale of the plant is a matter for the receiver and something over which I have no control. I have not been approached regarding the purchase of the plant.