Vol. 482 No. 5
68 Mr. O'Flynn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the companies, if any, which expressed an interest in locating in Ireland during her recent promotional visit to the United States which were considering locations outside the eastern region; and whether they were encouraged to consider the Cork region for their investment. [17613/97]
During my two recent visits to the United States I had discussions with a wide range of companies. I discussed the potential further for the location of new plants in this country, or the expansion of existing activities. In view of the very strong competition for the attraction of inward investment in Europe and elsewhere, it would be inappropriate to specify the companies involved.
I am committed to the most balanced regional distribution of employment opportunities. At my first meeting with both the chief executive officer of the IDA and Forbairt I emphasised the Government's policy in this matter. Both Cork city and county are being heavily promoted as suitable locations for inward location by the IDA.
