Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 March 2004
77 Mr. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason several large factory premises at Clonshaugh Industrial Estate, Dublin 17, are lying empty, including the former major premises of Gateway 2000 that has laid idle for nearly three years; and her views on the future of a company (details supplied) following a recent takeover. [7372/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe industrial estate in Coolock is a key development in the Dublin area for IDA Ireland. The company has informed me that over the past year a number of its units have been under negotiation for purchase and that, effectively, only the former Gateway facility is not being negotiated for sale at present.
To date the Gateway 330,000 sq. ft. facility has had a number of potential purchasers and continues to be marketed by IDA Ireland. It is difficult to dispose of such a large facility in the present climate due to the global downturn in the ICT sector.
In regard to the future of the company referred to by the Deputy, I understand that on 14 January the IDA met the company referred to by the Deputy. The company remained confident that the Irish operation had much to offer new owners. At present discussions regarding its strategic direction are under way between IDA Ireland and the company. An outcome to these discussions is anticipated within the next two months.
