Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for that reply.

I am very heartened by what he said, particularly his indication that the Minister, Deputy Richard Bruton, intends to meet with the chief executive officer of Abbott. I hope he will emphasise how important the company's operation is to the people of Tipperary. The facility at Clonmel has one of the most highly skilled workforces of any manufacturing plant in the country. Will the Minister report back to us as soon as possible with an update? There is huge concern in south Tipperary, as expressed in the local media, about the future of these jobs. My colleague, Deputy Seamus Healy, and I wish to co-operate in every way possible to ensure this employment is safeguarded. We are not seeking headlines in raising the matter. Our intention is to facilitate a constructive engagement with the company which will ensure its continued investment in south Tipperary.

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