Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

I asked the Minister whether he agreed with those who advise him, namely, the Department of Finance, the Central Bank and Mr. Macri, who chairs the Small Business Forum. He does not agree with them and considers everything to be great.

In recent hours, there have been some rumours in respect of the Proctor and Gamble plant in Nenagh, County Tipperary. If the Minister has any information in this regard, will he take this opportunity to indicate to Members whether there will be changes in the numbers employed there? The workers at least expect clarification on this matter. If the Minister has information available I am sure the House would be grateful.

Regarding these matters generally, is the early warning system operated by the IDA still in place? If so, is there any information we should know about this or rumours circulating about other facilities? How soon will we be able to engage with those companies? Is the Department or the IDA engaging with them to ensure the minimal amount of restructuring takes place in these plants in the context of employment?

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