Martin Ferris (Kerry North, Sinn Fein)
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Question 195: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the recent job losses in manufacturing in Listowel, County Kerry, due to the closure of a plant (details supplied); and the measures being taken to attract new investment to Listowel and north Kerry as a consequence. [16044/05]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by the Industrial Development Authority that, as a result of competitive pressures and a reduction in product demand, the company in question announced a restructuring plan in February of last year which would have seen over half of its workers made redundant. I understand from that the plan was rejected by the workers and the company took the decision to close the plant.

North Kerry continues to be promoted by IDA Ireland to potential investors from the manufacturing and international services sectors and every effort is being made to secure new investments for the area. The agency's strategy for the area is concentrated on developments in the international services, engineering and information communications technologies sectors, focusing on the linked hub town of Tralee. In addition to targeting potential new projects, IDA Ireland continues to work with its existing base of companies in north Kerry with a view to supporting these companies with potential expansions that strengthen their presence in the region.

Shannon Development has responsibility for the provision of property for industrial development in the area. Shannon Development works with companies to secure stronger niches in the global marketplace, through direct assistance to the companies themselves, and through initiatives such as the Kerry Technology Park, which was developed in partnership with Tralee Institute of Technology, and the Listowel Business Development Centre both of which are also actively marketed by IDA Ireland to potential investors. Shannon Development is investing almost €1.7 million in the Listowel centre which will provide the type of space required by smaller business. The first client, a locally based software company, took up occupancy earlier this year. A 16,500 sq. ft. factory has also been developed in Listowel and a food company, manufacturing prepared consumer ready meals, now occupies part of the building. I am satisfied that the combined efforts of the industrial development agencies, together with local interests, will continue to address the ongoing investment needs of the area.