Michael D'Arcy (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 351: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will request the IDA to make lands available in Gorey, County Wexford to the local authority, the county enterprise boards or community groups in order that they can be used as incubator units for small business or an alternative appropriate use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32435/07]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Under the Industrial Development Act of 1986, as amended by the Acts of 1993 and 1995, IDA Ireland has the power to acquire, hold and dispose of land and any other property or any interest therein for the purpose of facilitating an industrial undertaking. Accordingly, the management of IDA Ireland's industrial property portfolio is a day-to-day operational matter for the Agency, as part of the statutory responsibility assigned to it by the Oireachtas and it is not a matter in which I have a function.

As I explained to the House on 28th November last, the use to which IDA property can be put is prescribed by legislation and the disposal of property for any alternative use requires the consent of the Minister of the day. However, the Agency is always available to discuss proposals regarding availability or suitability of individual buildings with Local Authorities, Enterprise Boards or Community Groups and I will be happy to consider any request for such consent should it be required

As regards the particular query in relation to lands in Gorey, I have forwarded the enquiry to the Secretary of IDA Ireland for his attention and reply direct to you.