Vol. 570 No. 2
77 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she has had discussions with the management of a plant (details supplied) in Tallaght regarding the decision to close the plant with the loss of 121 jobs; the steps being taken to provide alternative employment in the area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18467/03]
On 20 May 2003, I was informed by the company that, following an extensive review, it was announcing plans for the restructuring of its European operations. One of the outcomes of the review was that the company decided to cease manufacturing at its Dublin plant. However, the company will retain 105 jobs here in sales, distribution and warehousing. The company advised that there would be full consultation with employees in relation to the implementation of its restructuring plans. These plans also include substantial job losses in the UK and Austria.
As regards alternative employment for the workers affected, FÁS is making available a wide range of services to the workforce including career counselling, reskilling and suitable training and job placement opportunities. A number of prominent companies in the electronics, internationally traded services and software sectors have established operations in the Tallaght area and are continuing to expand their operations. Recently, Google and Overture, two world renowned high tech companies, decided to locate in the area. A Japanese pharmaceuticals company has begun construction of a new plant in Grangecastle, Clondalkin. This area also has a new biotechnology facility employing 500 people, which is expected to increase to 1,300 over the next few years when the plant reaches full capacity.
Enterprise Ireland provided significant financial support to over 60 projects in south County Dublin last year. The agency has also approved funding towards the cost of a new campus innovation centre at the Tallaght Institute of Technology. At micro-enterprise level, the South Dublin County Enterprise Board provides a comprehensive range of supports and training.
