I propose to take Questions Nos. 655 and 660 together.
The Government and IDA Ireland did everything they could to avert the decision by HP Inc. I spoke with the company's senior management earlier this month. The IDA engaged intensively with HP Inc as well. Senior executives from the Agency visited the company in California and proposals were put forward to try and ensure the continuing presence of the business in Leixlip.
Unfortunately, it did not prove possible for the company to change course as the decision formed part of its wider global restructuring process. The company made it clear that this was irreversible.
I welcome Hewlett Packard’s stated commitment to making every effort to help those employees who will lose their jobs. The Government is also already making relevant State support available to the impacted employees. The Department of Social Protection, together with the relevant State Agencies, will all be doing their utmost to help workers transition and find new employment opportunities. This will include the provision of re-training, if required.
My investment mission to the USA in October last did not include a meeting with HP Inc.