Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Question 112: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if he will report on his latest contacts with executives of a company (details supplied) regarding the future of jobs at the Cadbury plants in Ireland; if he received any assurances regarding security of the jobs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36377/10]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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Enterprise Ireland has been in regular contact with Cadbury Ireland since Kraft Foods acquired Cadbury plc in February this year. Following a very positive meeting in May this year when I met senior Kraft Foods executives, Enterprise Ireland has been in ongoing discussions with Cadbury Ireland in relation to the planned investment programme, the redundancy programme and the Kraft/Cadbury integration process. The redundancy programme announced in June 2009, which will reduce the workforce by 200 people, is progressing following agreement with all key employee groups at Coolock and at its facility at Rathmore.

Kraft Foods has outlined its commitment to planned investments by Cadbury Ireland in its manufacturing facilities, which are currently being implemented. The investment in new chocolate moulding technology for the Coolock plant, which is grant supported by Enterprise Ireland, has been agreed and commissioning is underway. Enterprise Ireland met with management of the Cadbury's facility in Tallaght on the 17 September and support is being provided by the agency to initiate a strategic training and management development programme as well as a research and development programme. Interaction is ongoing to facilitate the plant in its drive to improve competitiveness and to develop new added value products.

The Government has outlined its commitment towards working in partnership with Kraft Foods to explore and to capitalise on strategic opportunities that Cadbury Ireland can deliver. Enterprise Ireland will continue to actively engage with Kraft Foods and Cadbury Ireland on strategic initiatives relating to research and development, improving competitiveness and strengthening manufacturing operations.