Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

As Deputy Boyle is aware, the number of jobs is not the only yardstick used in this regard. The coming into play of proper efficiencies provide longer sustainability and a better opportunity to retain plants. The latest CSO release on industrial employment in December indicates that employment in manufacturing increased by some 4,000 in the 12 months to September 2006.

I accept that this is no consolation to the workers at Motorola. Deputies Boyle and Allen raised issues relating to strategic policy, etc. It is important that we do not write Ireland off on foot of a series of announcements made in a particular week or two. A sentiment tends to be articulated that the world is going to collapse.

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