Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 947: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps which have been taken to replace the 350 full and part-time jobs lost at the NEC factory in Ballivor, County Meath, in March 2006; the number of new jobs that have been created in that area suited to the skill set of the workers made redundant since March 2006; the steps he will take between now and the end of the Government's term in office to give aid to this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28598/06]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Finding alternative employment for the workers in question is a priority for the State Development agencies. The Industrial Training agency FÁS has briefed all staff on the range of services available to them and many of them continue to participate in the various programmes run by the agency. Since the announcement of the job losses, Enterprise Ireland has participated at a number of meetings with the company concerned, outlining the various types of assistance that are available. In conjunction with Meath County Enterprise Board, Enterprise Ireland is participating in a series of workshops, which started in July 2006. These workshops concern Ideas Generation and how to Start Your Own Business. These courses are on going.

The Industrial Development agencies were recently involved in the approval of a major financial services project, which will provide 700 jobs over 5 years in Navan and this will be of significant benefit to County Meath. Notwithstanding this, IDA Ireland continues to promote Ballivor as a priority location within the County and is actively promoting the facility in question for new investment. To date, three potential investors have been introduced to the management of the existing facility. I am aware that the State Development agencies have strengthened their marketing efforts in County Meath, in partnership with local interests, in order to increase job opportunities for Ballivor and the surrounding area. They will continue to work together to secure a new project for the existing facility.