David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 67: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the action he intends to take to bring alternative employment to Ballyshannon in County Donegal following the closure of a company (details supplied) with the loss of 54 jobs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6195/05]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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It was with regret that I learnt of the announcement by Donegal Parian China that it intends to close its plant in Ballyshannon, County Donegal, with the loss 54 jobs.

I understand that the decision to close is due to a reduction in demand. However, I am also advised that the company is to consolidate its production in its existing Belleek facility and that some 15 of the 54 Donegal employees may be offered employment in Belleek.

The role of FÁS will be particularly important in assisting those who are to lose their jobs. The agency will make its full range of services available to the workers, including advice and training opportunities.

In addition to the foregoing, Enterprise Ireland is also providing information and support for those that might wish to start their own businesses.

On 2 December last I visited north Donegal and met several groups and companies. I undertook that visit in recognition of the relatively difficult employment situation in Donegal. It is also my intention, in the very near future, to visit south Donegal and meet local interest groups to discuss the employment situation.

IDA Ireland is actively marketing all areas of Donegal for new investment and jobs and has invested significant moneys in developing a business park to international standards in Letterkenny. In Ballyshannon itself, the agency has obtained planning permission for a new facility, and a significant amount of site development work has been completed. Also in Ballyshannon, Enterprise Ireland has recently partnered with the local community development company, Erne Enterprise, to develop new high-quality enterprise space. Enterprise Ireland is providing €300,000 in support to this new 10,000 sq. ft. enterprise centre.

While IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland continue to work with their existing company client base to encourage them to grow, the Donegal County Enterprise Board continues to be active in helping new and existing micro-enterprises in the county.

I can assure the Deputy that tackling the difficulties in Donegal is a priority, a point which I have also reiterated to the State development agencies operating in Donegal.