Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

This is a billion euro project. Let us be very careful. We have been very transparent, whereas normally we take a more confidential stand on the supports we give companies. We have a range of sites for potential investment. The Carrigtwohill site was developed specifically because Amgen had a view as to where it would locate. We offered a number of locations, and when this site was agreed with the company, the county council facilitated the provision of the site by rezoning it for major industrial facility that would bring significant jobs and investment to the region. Let us not forget the big picture and the spirit in which we engaged with Amgen. I do not know what the ultimate agenda is, but it does not impair the capacity of the IDA to attract investment into the Cork region. There are other sites that can host biopharmaceuticals. In response to the Deputy's question, I am happy that Amgen is holding on to the site. IDA Ireland is also happy that Amgen is holding on to the site because as I stated earlier we want to keep the door open. This business is volatile and cyclical and it changes. It is too early to close the door on the site or the company.

Many of the works were coming on stream in any event. The Amgen project merely accelerated a significant degree of utilities which the county council had put in. That is good news for the east Cork area. The Cork area strategic plan, as developed by Cork County Council and Corporation, identified east Cork as a growth area. Therefore, utilities are important there. It is a valuable site and is now zoned for major industrial activity. If Amgen does not develop it someone else will.

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