Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 March 2004
67 Mr. Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the action that has been taken to secure replacement employment in Macroom, County Cork, now that the jobs announced by the Taoiseach on 18 April 2002 for the former general semi-conductor plant, due to be created by Elan, are not due to come on stream; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8012/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince becoming available for sale in September 2002, IDA Ireland has, through its national and overseas network of offices, actively marketed the Macroom facility to a range of target sectors and existing client companies, including the pharmaceutical, medical technologies, ICT and international services areas. I am informed by IDA Ireland that the facility has now been sold to a private developer, who proposes to construct a business park there. IDA plans to meet with the developer shortly to discuss the future strategy for the facility.
The major decentralisation package announced in the budget includes 70 jobs to be relocated to Macroom. This move demonstrates the Government's commitment to balanced regional development and will provide a further boost to enterprise development in the area. I assure the Deputy that the State development agencies, under the aegis of my Department, will continue to actively promote Macroom for investment and job creation.
