Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 15: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he is satisfied with the job levels, following the recent publication of the Údarás na Gaeltachta annual report; if he is further satisfied with the job creation levels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5505/08]

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 142: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he is satisfied with the job levels, following the recent publication of the Údarás na Gaeltachta annual report; if he is further satisfied with the job creation levels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5687/08]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 15 and 142 together.

I understand from Údarás na Gaeltachta that its 2007 Annual Report will not be published until later in 2008. However, according to the Chief Executive's end of year statement, 1,038 new jobs in total were created in 2007. Significant progress was made in job creation in various sectors, including the services and modern manufacturing sectors. Total employment in Údarás na Gaeltachta assisted companies now stands at 8,026. This is the first year since 2001 that the full-time employment level has exceeded 8,000. I understand that these employment figures are in line with the national trend and indicate continued employment growth in the services sector. A notable aspect of this year's out-turn is the growth in the modern manufacturing sector, an indication that Údarás' strategy of focusing on niche manufacturing is delivering positive results.