Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Question 46: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the action he intends to take to bring replacement jobs to Wilton, County Cork following the loss of 172 jobs at Roches Stores; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31916/06]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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In relation to the 172 jobs in question, I would like the parties concerned to renew their negotiations in order to reach an agreement which would prevent the loss of the jobs. I have spoken on a ongoing basis to both sides in an effort to facilitate a resolution of the issue.

The Industrial Development agencies are continuing to promote Cork for employment opportunities. The strategy of IDA Ireland to create employment in Cork is to progress the development of a knowledge economy, so that the City can compete both nationally and internationally for foreign direct investment. The agency is also working with its existing client base to expand their presence in Cork as well as providing modern property solutions with supporting infrastructure in the area. New investment announcements made this year include Amgen, Citco, Netgear, Pepsi and Amazon, and AIB/Bank of New York. There were also a number of job announcements for the City and County at the end of last year.

Enterprise Ireland is also actively involved in assisting its client companies to grow and expand their businesses. So far this year, Enterprise Ireland has made payments in excess of €5 million to its client companies in County Cork. Since the beginning of 2005 to date, Enterprise Ireland has made payments of over €13 million to its client companies in the County. This investment (which included Rubicon Centre C.I.T, Websites and National Software Centre) was primarily to support new business employment, as well as research and development, capital investment and staff training.

I am confident that the Industrial Development agencies, including the County Enterprise Board, will continue to bring sustainable investment and job opportunities to the Cork region in the foreseeable future.