Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

I wish to speak about the serious issue that has arisen this week in north County Westmeath, namely, the loss of 420 jobs in Iralco. This long established company has operated in the area since the early 1960s with a highly skilled workforce producing quality products. It was anticipated by workers and management that they would work in tandem with its sister company in the Ukraine but, due to increasing inflation and the cost of running a business in this country, the entire company will be transferred to that country. However, I do not think all is lost. A meeting will be held today with the liquidator and management of the company, so there is still time. If it is possible to honour the orders that have been placed, the company could be sold as a going concern.

I am not political and I am aware how upsetting this matter must be for Senator Cassidy, who hails from the area. However, I lay the blame firmly at the feet of the Government for its mismanagement of economic growth and the wonderful Celtic tiger. County Westmeath has not received a single new manufacturing job. The chamber of commerce has stated that the business park in Mullingar has been waiting two years for the opening of its two units. Last month, 95 jobs were lost in Athlone on the same day that the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Martin, was on a trade mission to America.

I know the Leader will not be found wanting if there is any way he can influence the matter. It would make considerable sense for the liquidator to attempt to sell the company as a going concern. I repudiate the comments made by the Minister, Deputy Martin, in the interview. It is reported that he said there were difficulties between management and employees. This is not the reason for the problems, which are a result of rising costs, including energy costs. It was hoped the company would be able to work in tandem with the Ukraine, not that it would go out of business. I ask the Leader to consider this and I look forward to hearing his Adjournment matter.