Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I must remind the Minister of State that the creation of a task force does not absolve the Government of responsibility in this matter. It is barely credible that we still do not have an alternative four months from the first termination of employment in this matter. I appreciate that the task force is very committed, has worked hard and is using its best endeavours to attract alternatives but we need more input from IDA Ireland, led by the Government. This is an exceptional site with all of the attributes, services and facilities required by major manufacturing industries. We must ensure we do not give up on the idea of attracting a major industry and settle for small industries instead, just so we can say the site is still open.

I appreciate the response of the Minister of State but I ask that he and the Government be conscious of the fact that this issue has enormous consequences for the economy and the lives of many people in the Tipperary area. We need a positive and active response.

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