Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 9 Jun 1998

Vol. 492 No. 1

Written Answers. - Industrial Development.

Michael P. Kitt

Ceist:

48 Mr. M. Kitt asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the outcome of her visit to Ballinasloe, County Galway, in relation to industrial development; the progress, if any, in attracting a major industry to Ballinasloe; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13666/98]

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

On 18 May 1998 I had two meetings in relation to industrial development in the Ballinasloe area which were also attended by the Minister of State, Deputy Treacy. The meetings were as follows:

1. Meeting with representatives of the Creagh Community Development Council, Ballinasloe Urban District Council and Forbairt.

2. Meeting with Ballinasloe Urban District Council, Ballinasloe Chamber of Commerce, local authority representatives and representatives from IDA Ireland and Forbairt. The following issues were discussed: the success of the urban renewal programme; the strong partnership which exists between the UDC and the Chamber of Commerce through "Industry 2000"; the development of a 35 acre site for a new business park by IDA Ireland and the subsequent promotion of this park, when completed, to potential investors; the decentralisation of a division of a Government Department or agency; and the establishment of a community enterprise centre.

IDA Ireland continues to work closely with the UDC, the Chamber of Commerce, public representatives and other local interests to secure new investment for the area.

Forbairt, through its west regional office, has identified a suitable building for an enterprise centre and assistance has been provided to assess the feasibility of this proposal. Forbairt is awaiting a report on the outcome of the study and expects to receive this shortly.

More generally, I am determined to ensure that the relevant State agencies will continue to actively promote industrial development throughout the regions in furtherance of the commitment given in the programme for Government.