John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)

I am sure the loss of 250 jobs at the Stiefel plant in Sligo yesterday is close to the Tánaiste's heart. Can she tell the House whether due diligence took place before the company was sold three months ago? Stiefel has been the backbone of job creation in County Sligo since its operations commenced in 1975. It is apparent from information that has been supplied to me that it was bought by a major international company with the intention of downsizing it and eventually closing it. I am raising this matter in the context of the proposed industrial development foundation Bill. The people of Sligo would like to know what plans have been put in place by the Tánaiste in light of the massive impact of yesterday's news.

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