Noel Coonan (Tipperary North, Fine Gael)

In view of the statement by the European Court of Auditors that the sugar industry should never have been closed in Ireland, will the Minister use the CAP reform negotiations to pursue the agenda of reopening this industry?

The Minister mentioned the issue of money and the unavailability of sites. The first mistake was the closure of Thurles sugar factory. Is the Minister aware that Anglo American, the owner and operator of Lisheen Mine, which has a centre of excellence for renewable energy and a subsidy from the ESB, is focusing on this and has land that is zoned for the purpose? Will he enter into discussions with Anglo American with a view to basing this industry in Thurles, County Tipperary, in the midlands, where it should be? Will he avail of its offer and expertise? It has the capital investment to put into it.

See this speech in context