John Halligan (Waterford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I emphasise that IDA Ireland does its utmost to encourage clients to locate in and expand to the regions. I previously made the point that the agency has a global perspective. As the Deputy probably knows, the same tax incentives and the same geographical infrastructure exist throughout the country. In the south east, particularly Waterford, Cork and Wexford, IDA Ireland has the same opportunities to meet client companies and advise them as to suitable locations to establish operations and about areas that have competent workforces, a good quality of life and the necessary infrastructure. Ultimately, however, the companies make the decisions and we cannot force or cajole them and say "Oh please don't locate in Dublin. Please come down to Waterford". As much as the Deputy and I would like to see companies setting up in Waterford and as other Deputies would like to see them in their regions, it must be accepted that IDA Ireland offers the same facilities all over the country to encourage FDI companies to set up in the regions. I reiterate that individual companies make the decision in that regard.

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