Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 3 Dec 1998

Vol. 497 No. 7

Written Answers - Job Protection.

Austin Deasy

Ceist:

16 Mr. Deasy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will make a statement on recent newspaper comments on Bausch and Lomb which indicated that the 350 jobs in Waterford would come under the spot-light; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25979/98]

Nora Owen

Ceist:

75 Mrs. Owen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will make a statement on a recent newspaper comment on Bausch and Lomb which indicated that the 350 jobs in Waterford were to come under threat. [26167/98]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 16 and 75 together.

I am informed by IDA Ireland that Bausch and Lomb Inc., New York, USA, announced on 18 November 1998 that it plans to divest itself of its premium fashion eyewear business. The US company has hired an investment firm to advise on the options available for the eyewear business, including its sale, spin-off into other divisions, or forming a joint venture.

The decision is based on the company's plan to focus on expanding its core eye-care products business, including contact lenses, which are manufactured in Waterford and afford employment to 1400 people. In addition, 350 people are employed in the company's Ray-Ban sunglasses Waterford plant.

IDA Ireland is closely monitoring developments with a view to ensuring that employment at the Waterford plants is maintained at the maximum level possible.