Vol. 417 No. 9
107 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will outline the way in which the policy of the Industrial Development Authority in regard to aiding particular firms is coordinated with that of FAS in order to ensure that the policies of the two agencies do not conflict with one another in particular sectors where there may be limitations in the market place in the demand for particular products and services.
The IDA is the principal national body with responsibility for promoting manufacturing and international service industry. The functions of the IDA and the nature of supports available are set out clearly in the Industrial Development Act, 1986, as amended by the Industrial Development (Amendment) Act, 1991.
IDA liaise very closely with FÁS in the implementation of all the Authority's training-type supports. Indeed, section 28 of the Industrial Development Act specifically requires the IDA to consult with FÁS prior to making a grant for the training of persons in the processes of an industrial undertaking. For the purposes of considering major training grant proposals, there is a special FÁS/IDA Training Grants Committee. FÁS are also represented on each of the IDA's Regional Small Industry Boards.
In so far as grants supports in particular sectors are concerned, there are interdepartmental and inter-agency contacts with the intent of ensuring, as far as possible, that the programmes operated by the two agencies do not conflict with each other. The IDA operate a sensitive sector list agreed with my Department under which IDA grant aid is not given in circumstances where firms would be competing primarily against existing businesses on the home market. FÁS operate with a wider remit which extends beyond manufacturing and international service industry.
Further questions regarding the policy of FÁS in relation to these matters would more appropriately be directed to the Minister for Labour.
