Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)
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Question 243: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, further to an adjournment debate of 25 April 2006 regarding a company (details supplied), the measures he will put in place to ensure that replacement industries are secured for the Thurles area and the wider North Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17013/06]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The Industrial Development agencies operating in the areas in question are making every effort to secure alternative employment for Thurles and North Tipperary. Job creation is a day-to-day administration matter for the agencies concerned and, in addition, a central goal for the agencies is the achievement of balanced regional development. Notwithstanding this, I should point out that the location of a particular project ultimately rests with the promoter of that project.

The present position is that IDA Ireland has responsibility for the attraction of foreign direct investment to North Tipperary, including the town of Thurles, and Shannon Development has responsibility for the provision of industrial property solutions in the area. Shannon Development's role in supporting indigenous enterprise will transfer to Enterprise Ireland under the new mandate granted by me to Shannon Development last year. In addition, the Tipperary North County Enterprise Board provides support for the micro-business sector.

Initiatives undertaken by Shannon Development in the provision of property solutions include the development of the Tipperary Technology Park in Thurles and the acquisition of a 29-acre site in Roscrea with a view to developing a Business Park. These facilities are being actively marketed by IDA Ireland to potential clients through its network of overseas offices. Shannon Development, in association with Local Authorities, is also spearheading the drive to bring high-speed Internet access to the region. The Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources has recently approved funding for Metropolitan Area Networks to be installed, which should assist in attracting both indigenous and overseas industry. I am confident that these activities will bring sustainable investment and jobs for the people of Thurles and the wider North Tipperary area.