Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

I thank Senator Mansergh for raising this matter on the Adjournment.

The Tánaiste learned with grave disappointment of the recent decision by Pall to close its medical filter manufacturing operation in Tipperary with the loss of 155 jobs. The Tánaiste understands that the parent company has made a decision to transfer this line to Puerto Rico. The company currently employs a total of 230 people in the manufacture of medical and industrial filters in Tipperary town. While these job losses are regrettable, the Tánaiste is heartened that the remaining 75 people involved in the manufacture of industrial filters will continue in employment in Tipperary.