Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 103: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his plans to bring employment to Newbridge following the announcement of the plan to lay off 250 people at a company (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17883/06]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The company in question has experienced a reduced demand for several of the products it manufactures at its facility in Newbridge and it is anticipated that up to 250 positions will be phased out between 2006 and 2007. The training agency FAS will assist the workforce, which is highly skilled, to plan new careers and identify training needs. The agency will also provide training in the range of skills necessary to secure alternative employment.

Notwithstanding the job losses, the company announced last March that it was investing €350 million, with significant support from IDA Ireland, in its Newbridge facility to expand future production capabilities for a new and emerging pipeline of pharmaceutical products. This investment is part of the company's global manufacturing strategy and demonstrates a continued commitment to its Newbridge facility. Unfortunately, while the Newbridge facility prepares for the arrival of these new products, the company has decided that a significant number of positions need to be phased out.

The Industrial Development agencies will continue to promote the area for employment opportunities. The strategy of IDA Ireland to create employment in Newbridge is to progress the development of a knowledge economy in order that the town can compete both nationally and internationally for foreign direct investment. The agency is also working with its existing client base to expand their presence.

Enterprise Ireland is also actively involved in assisting its client companies to grow and develop their businesses. Since the beginning of 2003, that agency has approved over €14 million and made payments of over €3.7 million to companies in County Kildare to help them grow their sales. One of the main indigenous industry sectors in the County is the food and consumer products sector which accounts for a major part of the employment growth within the County. Expansion projects by Green Isle and Dawn Foods have been announced for nearby Naas. From a combined base of over 1,100 employees, these companies will provide a further 250 new jobs over the next few years.

I am confident that the Industrial Development agencies will continue to provide sustainable investment and job opportunities for the area.