John Halligan (Waterford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I have a lot of information about this issue that I will probably have to send to the Deputy. However, I will do my best to reply. Regional development is a key priority for my Department. We understand the importance of achieving the best possible spread of employment and investment throughout the country. My Department and its agencies have been working hard towards that goal. Significant progress has already been made with 58% of all IDA Ireland client-supported employment now located outside of Dublin. This figure is the highest ever in the history of the agency. Our aim is to increase this percentage further in 2019.

The availability of marketable serviced land and buildings in advance of demand is a key element in the IDA Ireland's ability to compete for mobile foreign direct investment, FDI. Not only does such a supply of properties help the agency to secure high-quality jobs, it also allows projects to begin at an earlier date by diminishing difficulties associated with land acquisition, planning and construction. It, therefore, remains an important means by which IDA Ireland can encourage and attract new investors to Ireland. IDA Ireland currently owns 29 properties. Of these, 14 are occupied by IDA Ireland clients. The remainder are available for prospective or existing investors. I will provide the Deputy with a table setting out the location of these various properties.

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