Vol. 538 No. 1
61 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the specific proposals she has to find alternative employment for workers who lost their jobs at a company (details supplied) in Athy, County Kildare, having regard to her statement of 25 May 2001; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17237/01]
Immediately following the announcement by the promoters to cease operations at its Athy facility, discussions began with FÁS, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland. I have asked them to make every effort to find alternative employment for the workers who are to lose their jobs.
The full range of services available from FÁS have already been discussed with the managing director of the company. FÁS officials met with the factory supervisor, 50 of the staff and the union representative on 29 May to discuss details of how best to provide this service. On 7 June, Enterprise Ireland's chief executive officer and the area director both met the Kildare county manager to discuss the issues facing Athy and how investment and development in Athy can be fostered in the wake of the announcement of the job losses. Enterprise Ireland is already promoting the provision of a community enterprise centre in the town, incorporating training facilities, a crèche and small units for micro companies.
As part of IDA's commitment to Athy, a 28,000 sq. ft. advance factory has been constructed. The factory is being promoted by both IDA and Enterprise Ireland to secure new investment to the town. Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland are treating Athy as a priority area for investment and are making every effort to build on the town's vital strengths, such as its strategic location in a rapidly growing region and its relative proximity to the greater Dublin area.
