Willie Penrose (Westmeath, Labour)
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Question 173: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the measures which have been taken by his Department to afford assistance to management and staff at C & D Petfoods following the recent fire at its premises; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4098/06]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Enterprise Ireland has been in ongoing contact with the company in question since the day after the fire. The agency met company management on 25 January 2006 to assess the situation and discuss the options available. I understand that an evaluation process is under way to determine the extent of the damage as well as the remaining production capability. The company is also facilitating the insurance evaluation of the premises. There are many other issues which still need clarification and, as these become clearer, the company will be in a position to make an informed decision on the future of the facility.

Enterprise Ireland has offered to provide any assistance, the company may require, in particular through the use of its regional network of offices to locate premises or manufacturers that may be suitable for temporary production purposes. The agency has also offered the services of its overseas office network to facilitate the search for an overseas company with the potential to produce product for the company until it is back in full production.

Although matters are still evolving, the company has confirmed that production at its soft can facility resumed on 6 February 2006. It is expected that the full soft can staff complement of 180 will resume today, 7 February 2006. Notwithstanding this, FÁS has been in contact with employer and union representatives to outline the labour market supports that will be made available to those employees who may be out of work for some time. These supports will include vocational guidance, motivational supports, job-seeking skills, technical skills, training and information on job vacancies — all tailored to meet the needs of each individual. Every assistance possible is being given to the company to ensure that a viable pet food manufacturing facility will continue to exist in Edgeworthstown.