Paudge Connolly (Cavan-Monaghan, Independent)
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Question 277: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the closure of a company (details supplied) in County Monaghan with the loss of a total of 82 jobs; his proposals to replace these jobs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29938/04]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Enterprise Ireland has been working closely with Barford Meats Limited over the past 18 months, with a view to identifying outside investors who would bring much needed investment to the business. At Enterprise Ireland's urging, a business mentor was appointed in May 2003 to review the financial situation and provide strategic guidance to the company. Resulting from this involvement, the company embarked on a restructuring exercise in September 2004, whereby the various investors including Enterprise Ireland were bought out by the main promoter, Mr. Gene McGinn. This ensured the company was fully owned by Mr. McGinn. It was thought at the time that the restructured balance sheet would facilitate the survival of the business. Enterprise Ireland expects to meet with Mr. McGinn shortly to discuss the future situation regarding the company.

Enterprise Ireland believes there may be some potential investors interested in acquiring the assets and business of Barford Meats Limited. Enterprise Ireland will work with any new buyer and consider any new proposals to develop the business. Enterprise Ireland activity in job creation is focused on the retention and creation of new jobs in existing companies, and on the creation of new jobs by supporting entrepreneurs to set up high potential start-up companies. IDA Ireland is actively marketing County Monaghan on an ongoing basis as a location for foreign direct investment, through its network of overseas offices, in order to secure new investment and jobs for the area. Regional locations can suffer badly from the loss of one industry and substantial work is required to enhance such locations to make them more attractive and competitive. IDA Ireland is working closely with local authorities and third level colleges to deliver the best solution.

A representative from the FÁS office in Dundalk, together with a representative of the local enterprise service, met with the local shop steward and a member of the management of Barford Meats Limited. Approximately 34 members of the workforce were spoken to, and advised of the procedures to follow. A list of the current job vacancies in the area was supplied together with appropriate registration forms. Individual interviews are due to take place on 22, 23 and 29 November 2004, in the offices of the Department of Social and Family Affairs, Ardee Road, Carrickmacross, County Monaghan.

The live register figure for County Monaghan published by the Central Statistics Office for October 2004 is 2,271, a decrease of 276 from October 2003. The live register, though not an accurate measure for unemployment as it includes others in receipt of social welfare payments, is nonetheless a useful indicator of the economic situation in an area. The State agencies continue to make their best efforts to bring new investment and jobs to County Monaghan.