Paudie Coffey (Fine Gael)

I wish to raise a matter of serious concern not only for Waterford but for the region and the nation, namely, the predicament of Waterford Crystal. As many people are probably aware, 500 jobs are at stake in that company which has an iconic brand, not only for Waterford but for Ireland. This is a flagship company that has benefited our economy for many generations. Generations of taxpayers in Waterford have contributed enormously, even through tough times, to our economy. Now they are calling for help from the Government to underwrite a €39 million loan, which we were told last night has been declined.

There is serious concern in Waterford city and the region about the future of the company. This matter is of such importance that I wish, under Standing Order 30, to appeal to the Leader to make time available today for a special debate on this matter. Manufacturing industry is under major threat in this country. Waterford Crystal has been at the frontline of our export products for many years. We need only think back to the introduction of the millennium in New York when the Waterford Crystal ball was the highlight of the event. We cannot afford to lose this company and its product for this country.

This company is important not only for our manufacturing industry but for our tourism industry, for which it has major spin-offs. The Leader will appreciate from his background in tourism in the hotel industry the importance of tourist attractions in an area. Waterford Crystal is one of the leading tourist attractions in the country. It attracts luxury liners into the Waterford Estuary where thousands of Americans or other foreigners visit the south east and travel beyond. I seek to raise this matter under Standing Order 30 in the hope that the Leader will be able to facilitate even a half hour debate and invite the Tánaiste or some other Minister, if available, to the House, as it is a matter of urgent importance.

There is great fear in Waterford this morning because if this company closes it will tear the heart out of Waterford city. I do not say that lightly. When I was driving to the House this morning there was more talk on the national airwaves of Dustin the turkey than of the real threat to Irish manufacturing and tourism, which worries me. If Waterford Crystal goes down, it will take with it its tourism product that tourists throughout the world find attractive. I strongly appeal to the Leader to make time available to debate this important issue. I thank the Cathaoirleach for allowing me the time to raise this point.