Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

The industrial development agencies work closely with local interests in Mallow for the purpose of advancing the attractiveness of Mallow as a location for both indigenous industry and foreign direct investment. In this regard, Enterprise Ireland was involved with the Mallow development partnership and contributed to a commissioned plan on an integrated development strategy for the town undertaken by outside consultants. The plan took an overall view of the town's potential, particularly in the areas of industrial development, retailing, housing, education and sport. The agencies will work closely with the local area plan for the town.

On 21 March 2006 the Taoiseach, the Minister for Agriculture and Food, the Minister of State at the Department of Enterpise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Michael Ahern, and I met a delegation of various interests and concerned parties in regard to the sugar factory site in Mallow. At the time I indicated my intention to ensure possible alternative uses of the company's facility would be explored. There is now a €500 million development plan for the site. This includes enterprise space of 800,000 sq. ft., a hotel, recreational facilities and plans to create up to 2,000 jobs. This is without doubt a very significant initiative for the Mallow area. The development will add greatly to the ongoing development of the town. In addition, Enterprise Ireland has had discussions with the company about the development of land in Mallow. The agency is prepared to consider supporting any suitable projects that might emerge.

IDA Ireland is marketing six hectares of remaining land at Mallow Business Park. There are now eight companies located on the park, employing approximately 120 people. A new office block of 2,000 sq. m is also nearing completion. As a means of improving the attractiveness of Mallow for further investment, the IDA has engaged in a programme of works at its business park consisting of road repairs, the upgrade of water mains and sewers and the construction of a new entrance. The agency has also appointed a landscaping consultant to design complementary landscaping works for the park which will be completed in 2007. There are five IDA supported companies in Mallow employing approximately 540 people, including more than 450 employed at the Kostal facility outside the town.

The development of indigenous industry in Mallow continues to be supported by Enterprise Ireland. The pumping equipment company, EPS, employs more than 200 people in the town. I am satisfied the combined efforts of the industrial development agencies and local area interests will continue to bring new investment and job opportunities to the Mallow area.

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