Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)

I can tell the Deputy that the Tánaiste has been fully briefed on this and is kept abreast by the IDA. Her absence from the House tonight is in no way a disrespect to the concerns of the workers or to the Deputies opposite who have raised the matter.

This issue is very sensitive. Discussions with companies such as this are done on a confidential basis. When the IDA goes abroad and attracts companies into this country, as it has been doing very successfully down the years, all remains on a confidential basis until such time as contracts are drawn up and an announcement is made. Equally, when the IDA is in discussions with a client company that is reviewing its global operations, we must respect the confidentiality of that company and of the IDA in making sure that they can go about their business. The Government is fully committed to ensuring that we have facilities such as Dell and other global operators in this country.

It has been a successful strategy and the IDA has been very successful in attracting business into this country, particularly in the ICT sector. We all know the importance of Dell and of many other global companies that are located in Ireland. It is a considerable employment base and is equally important in the context of our net exports. We are fully aware of the importance of Dell and of other companies and are committed to ensuring that Dell remains in Limerick and, in general, that other companies remain in Ireland.

For that reason we are trying to ensure that we remain competitive and are seen as an attractive location. We have reduced corporation tax and have a highly educated, skilled, mobile and flexible workforce. We must ensure the continuance of those key ingredients that first attracted companies such as Dell and many other multinationals into this country. The Government is continually investing in education, up-skilling and re-training. It also makes sure that there is flexibility in the workforce——

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