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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 6 Nov 1997

Vol. 482 No. 5

Written Answers - Industrial Development.

Noel O'Flynn

Ceist:

83 Mr. O'Flynn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the proactive measures, if any, which are in place to guarantee the inclusion of Cork in the itineraries of all those who visit this country with a view to setting up businesses in Ireland. [17608/97]

A critical part of IDA Ireland's remit is to achieve the most equitable spread of development across the regions of the country. IDA Ireland continues to devote considerable resources, energy and enthusiasm to this task.

The companies supported by IDA Ireland are encouraged to look at many locations across the country during the process of their decision making. IDA Ireland is very conscious of its responsibility to promote and bring new investors to all regional locations including Cork. To date in 1997, there have been 11 projects announced for the Cork area. These projects, when fully developed, will create 2,827 jobs which will have a very positive impact on employment levels in the Cork area. In 1997 to date there have been 70 first time site visits and 56 return visits to Cork by potential overseas investors.
The inclusion of a location in an itinerary for an overseas investor is determined by consideration of a number of factors including: size and nature of the project; level and type of skill requirements; proximity to third level institutions; proximity to port facilities; building requirements; and issues such as natural gas, or high levels of water availability, may also be specific requirements of some individual processes.
The number of new greenfield manufacturing projects attracted to Ireland in any year is limited, and the ultimate decision on where to locate lies with the potential investors. It is important for inward investors to feel that IDA Ireland understands their business and needs. At the same time, realistic efforts are made to influence the choice of location where possible without loss of jobs to the country.
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