Ivor Callely (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)

I thank Deputy Morgan for raising this matter. I would like to clarify some issues for him and he may be able to assist in finding a satisfactory conclusion.

In April 2001, IDA Ireland approved grant support towards a new project from Galen Pharmaceuticals for approximately 200 jobs in Ardee, which involved a €45.7 million investment and the construction of a 153,000 sq. ft. facility on a 52 acre green field site at Ardee, County Louth. The facility was planned to produce a range of female health care products and would require a 21 month construction and fit out-validation timeframe. The company planned to be in production and delivering products to the market by October 2003.

In making its planning application for the construction of the new facility, there were a number of objections which continue to be heard in the High Court. Deputy Morgan could perhaps help to resolve some of these issues.

Meanwhile, Galen Pharmaceuticals continued to be under pressure to deliver products to the marketplace in line with the growth in demand. To facilitate this, a suitable facility became available in Puerto Rico and, to enable the company meet its market objectives, Galen has now acquired this facility. I note that Deputy Morgan said that there had been an announcement by Galen not to proceed. That strikes me as news, unless Deputy Morgan has information not available to me. My information, which I am sure Deputy Morgan will welcome, is that Galen has not decided to abandon its plans for Ardee.

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