Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

I thank Deputy McGinley for raising this matter on the Adjournment.

The announcement by the company that it is to close its Donegal Parian China facility is most disappointing and particularly devastating for the workers and families directly affected.

I understand the decision to close is due to a reduction in product demand. However, I am also advised that the company is to consolidate its production in its existing Beleek facility and that some 15 of the 54 Donegal employees may be offered employment in Beleek.

The role of FÁS, the State training agency, will be particularly important in assisting those who are to lose their jobs. FÁS will provide advice and training opportunities for the Parian China workforce. FÁS will make its full range of services available to the workers, which will include top level agreement with the company on responsibilities and actions; intensive interviews, individually and-or in groups, with affected workers that will outline the range of supports and services available; preparation of a "skills analysis report" by FÁS based on identified workers' needs and local opportunities; referral by FÁS of affected workers to jobs, training courses or other options; establishment by FÁS of special or customised training courses where necessary; and ongoing support and action to keep redundant workers in touch with the labour market. In addition to the foregoing, Enterprise Ireland is also providing information and support for those who might wish to start their own businesses.

On 2 December 2004 my colleague, the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Martin, visited North Donegal and met with a number of groups and companies. He undertook this visit in recognition of the relatively difficult employment situation in Donegal. It is his intention, in the very near future, to visit south Donegal and meet with local interest groups to discuss the employment position.

The IDA is actively marketing all areas of Donegal for new investment and jobs and has invested significant moneys in developing a business park to international standards in Letterkenny. In Ballyshannon, the IDA has obtained planning permission for a new facility and a significant amount of site development work has been recently completed. Also in Ballyshannon, Enterprise Ireland has recently partnered with the local community development company, Erne Enterprise, to develop new high quality enterprise space. Enterprise Ireland is providing €300,000 in support to this new 10,000 square foot enterprise centre.

While the IDA and Enterprise Ireland continue to work with their existing company client base to encourage them to grow, the Donegal County Enterprise Board continues to be active in helping new and existing micro-enterprises in the county. I assure the Deputy that tackling the difficulties in Donegal is a priority for the Government and the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Martin, a point which he has also reiterated to the State development agencies operating in Donegal.

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