Vol. 473 No. 3
237 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the proposals, if any, he has to restore the pig slaughtering capacity in the Border region to the level which previously existed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25003/96]
I have been in close contact with Forbairt since the three pig slaughtering plants in the Border region closed earlier this year.
I understand that it is unlikely that two out of the three firms will reopen as pigmeat slaughtering plants. In the case of the third plant, Forbairt is in discussion with the owner and has placed its full range of resources at the disposal of the company concerned, with a view to a resumption of operations there, on a viable basis. A reopening will not happen in the immediate future however.
Ultimately it is a matter for the owner of this company to decide whether a resumption of activities takes place.
