Dan Neville (Limerick West, Fine Gael)
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Question 231: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when he will meet a County Limerick group (details supplied) to discuss the serious situation which has developed following serious job losses in west Limerick. [6848/05]

Dan Neville (Limerick West, Fine Gael)
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Question 232: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the loss of jobs (details supplied) in County Limerick and his plans to replace these jobs. [6849/05]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 231 and 232 together.

I am aware of the jobs situation in County Limerick. My immediate concern is for the workers who are losing their jobs. The full services of FÁS, particularly in relation to re-training and upskilling, are made available to such workers if the workers wish to avail of those services.

Most of the job losses are in the poultry sector. I understand that there is excess capacity in the poultry slaughter sector and this is hampering the competitiveness of the poultry industry. Both Enterprise Ireland and Shannon Development have been working closely with the poultry companies and are intensifying their efforts to minimise the impact of the situation.

Replacing jobs is a tough challenge, particularly in regional locations. However, a central goal is the achievement of balanced regional development. The industrial development agencies will work closely with the local authority and other local interests to deliver the best solution in this regard. The emphasis is on attracting new knowledge-intensive projects in information communications and technology, international services, medical technologies and life sciences.

I am aware that Shannon Development and the local county enterprise board are already working with the Killeedy committee in Limerick and I see this as the best way forward for the present. I am satisfied that with the good will and efforts of all involved in the area, the job needs of the county will continue to be addressed.