Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)

This issue has been raised on a number of occasions and I thank the Deputies for raising it tonight. Obviously I understand its sensitivity with three local Deputies coming to the House to raise the issue of Dell's workforce in Limerick. The Government acknowledges the importance of Dell. IDA Ireland is in discussion with Dell on a regular basis. As I said on 8 October, discussions between IDA Ireland and any client company remain confidential. Everybody is aware that there is a global downturn and there are major challenges in the context of the world economy and our present situation. Dell, like any other company, is carrying out a review of its global operations. That is well known and has been broadly discussed. We are not trying to scaremonger. We are trying to ensure every support possible is made available to ensure that Dell regards Limerick as a strategic location.

IDA Ireland has been very successful in previous times. I do not want to rehearse speeches in recent times on investment in Limerick. Deputy O'Donnell referred to the establishment of a task force etc. We acknowledge the concerns of the people working there. We also acknowledge that temporary contract staff have been let go. That is a cyclical matter that happens from time to time. It is never easy for those who have been informed that their contracts of employment have been terminated. Dell has been a very successful employer and is a major contributor not only to the Limerick economy but also to Ireland Inc. I acknowledge the contribution Dell has made over many years at its plant in Limerick. Reference was made to Flextronics and Banta and there are major spin-offs from Dell. I assure the Deputies that the Government with IDA Ireland as a link is in discussions with Dell. However, those discussions must remain confidential as I am sure those on the opposite side of the House will understand.

Deputy O'Donnell and others raised the matter previously. The Tánaiste met management and the Deputies will understand that those discussions must remain confidential. However, as the Tánaiste would have outlined, the Government will ensure that every support possible will be made available to Dell. Equally we must ensure that Ireland is seen as a competitive location. Major companies consistently locate here. IDA Ireland is very successful in bringing international companies here. Yesterday Marriott announced 220 jobs to be created here. Ireland is still competitive. We must put our best foot forward in ensuring that companies located here at present remain here. Importantly those considering Ireland as a location in which to invest should receive the full supports of IDA Ireland, the Government and everybody involved.

I responded on this issue on 8 October to Deputy O'Donnell. I do not want to give the same reply as he has already said that was inadequate.

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