Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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Question 77: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation his views on the announcement by the medical devices company (details supplied) to shed almost 200 jobs at its plant in Tullamore, County Offaly; if he has met or plans to meet management at the company to try save these jobs; his plans for industrial development in the area in view of the absence of other significant manufacturing industries there; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24635/10]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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Covidien informed IDA on 25th May that they would be seeking redundancies for 160 permanent staff on a voluntary basis and the loss of 40 temporary workers, which will be on a phased timescale, commencing in late June-July. These job losses will bring total headcount down to 400.

The company cited increased competition from new, low-cost competitors and a decline in the overall Europe, Middle East and Africa market as the reasons for the planned reduction.

I wish to assure the Deputy that every effort will be made to find alternative employment for those people who will be made redundant. FAS will work with the company to facilitate this.

Enterprise Ireland and the County Enterprise Board will also be offering their full services to any workers considering starting up a business.

IDA Ireland's Strategy for County Offaly and the Midlands Region is: · To progress the development of a knowledge economy, in order that the region can compete both nationally and internationally for foreign direct investment; · To work with the existing client base in the county and to expand their presence in the county; and, · To provide modern property solutions with supporting infrastructure.

Under its new strategy IDA will continue to focus on delivering 50% of investment in the priority regional locations outside of Dublin and Cork. I can assure you that within these regions, including County Offaly, IDA is and will continue to be sensitive to particular pressure points as they arise.

I can assure the House that the State development agencies are promoting County Offaly as an attractive location for employment and investment opportunities and they will continue to make the full range of services available to all those who need them.