Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

Much of the area referred to in this question falls outside my remit as it is part of the remit of Údarás na Gaeltachta. However, in so far as my area of responsibility is concerned, the State development agencies under the aegis of my Department — IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland and Mayo County Enterprise Board — continue to promote the establishment and expansion of enterprises in north and west Mayo. These areas come within the Border, midlands and west region, which is eligible for a more favourable incentive package compared with the rest of the country.

IDA Ireland has made substantial progress with regard to the proportion of new greenfield jobs locating in the BMW region and is fully committed to achieving a target of 50% of all new greenfield projects over the 2000 to 2006 period. This is consistent with the regional policy objectives set out in the national development plan.

Enterprise Ireland has concentrated much of its attention on providing community enterprise centres in County Mayo and, as a result, Mayo has a greater number of such centres than any other county in the western region. A total of ten county enterprise centres have been approved to date in the county.

Mayo County Enterprise Board is also working with the other development agencies in promoting enterprise in the area generally. Where appropriate, the county enterprise board provides grant support to eligible enterprises.

The services of FÁS are also available, if required, to assist workers to find alternative employment if the need arises. Placement officers from FÁS have met employees who have been made redundant in recent years to discuss other career opportunities or further training.

I am satisfied that a combined agency approach, together with the involvement of local and community interests, will assist in the ongoing development of north and west Mayo in the future.

See this speech in context