Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 12 Feb 1998

Vol. 487 No. 2

Written Answers. - Assessment of Foreign Companies.

Michael Creed

Ceist:

101 Mr. Creed asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will instruct the IDA to immediately undertake an assessment of all companies operating in Ireland whose parent companies are located in the south east of Asia in view of the financial difficulties and the stock market turbulence in this area; and if she will introduce, if necessary, a scheme of special assistance for companies experiencing difficulties here as a result of these financial difficulties. [3722/98]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Miss Harney)

Investment into Ireland from that region is predominantly from Japan, and to a lesser extent, Korea. Countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand, which are among the most seriously affected, are not sources of inward investment for IDA Ireland. IDA Ireland has, however, had extensive discussions with companies which may be affected by the Asian crisis and I have asked it to continue to monitor the situation closely. The full impact of the crisis may take some time to unfold and while there is a need for continuing vigilance, there are no plans for introducing special assistance in this context.