Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)

In the present competitive global markets, it is increasingly difficult to continue to attract such facilities as manufacturing companies in particular are going to low cost destinations such as China and central Europe. Central American countries, including Brazil and Singapore among others have low corporation tax levels, good infrastructures and good legal systems. Many companies are considering them is a sizable challenge and we must continue to address that.

To address this market shift, IDA Ireland is refocusing to areas such as international services, software, financial services and pharmaceuticals. In 2005, IFS established a facility in the Millennium Park in County Kildare. The requirements of these types of project mean that they are increasingly attracted to larger populations, such as Kildare or Naas. To support this strategy, IDA Ireland is also working closely with educational institutions in County Kildare, such as NUI Maynooth, in developing the skill sets necessary to attract high value added employment. The agency is also working with FÁS to provide guidance in developing the skill sets needed by those already in the workforce who are interested in upskilling.

The Millennium Park in Naas, within the environs of Kildare South, has three modern 40,000 sq. ft. advance office buildings that are now available for marketing to inward investors, with all the necessary infrastructure, including ducting for broadband. New indigenous companies have been established and have created new employment in the county, which will benefit the people of Kildare South. It is expected that the consumer foods sector will continue to expand, reflecting significant changes in eating habits and an increase in demand for convenience foods.

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