Fiona O'Loughlin (Kildare South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I refer to page 41 of the programme for Government, which refers to leadership on jobs targets and rural development, and the regional spread of economic growth and jobs. Yesterday, the community of Athy was devastated by the news that Coca-Cola, which has been a strong employer in the town for 45 years, will close its factory with the immediate loss of 82 jobs and a consequential impact on 70 other jobs. I cannot overstate what this will do to the town with the loss of millions of euro to the local economy. It is a massive blow to a community that is battling unemployment issues. What will the Government do to ensure every support is made available to the former workers and to redouble efforts to ensure IDA Ireland investment in Athy? I have spoken to other local employers such as Pfizer which are prepared to help and review CVs. We need Government action immediately.

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