Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 21 Oct 2003

Vol. 572 No. 6

Written Answers. - Unemployment Levels.

Jerry Cowley

Ceist:

166 Dr. Cowley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a suitable compensation package and tax incentive scheme will be arranged for the Knocknacower area in view of the census findings that the area, which includes the Pullathomas-Inver area, is the worst unemployment black spot in the county, and the other indications from the census about the north and west Mayo area, which show it is the most economically deprived area in Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24278/03]

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

The State development agencies under the aegis of my Department – IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland and the Mayo County Enterprise Board – continue to promote the establishment and expansion of enterprises in north and west Mayo. The services of FÁS are also available to assist workers in finding alternative employment. North and west Mayo come within the BMW region which is eligible for a more favourable incentive package compared with the rest of the country.