Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the position regarding a request by Monaghan County Council (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51754/12]

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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In accordance with the Industrial Development Acts, the management of IDA Ireland’s industrial property portfolio, including the purchase and sale of land, is a day-to-day operational matter for the agency. I have been in discussion with IDA Ireland about this matter and the Agency has explained to me that, in order to fully align with the strategic objectives set out in its strategy “Horizon 2020”, it is now focussed on maintaining its Business and Technology Parks in Gateway locations and its strategic sites, while simultaneously disposing of its non-core property assets located in legacy locations around the country.

I understand that the 7.56 Ha site in Knockanconny has been in IDA ownership since the early 1980’s. The lands are fully serviced and zoned for industry and employment use and are located approximately 3kms east of Monaghan Town Centre with nearby park occupiers including Monaghan VEC, the Revenue Commissioners, Special EU Programmes Body and Monaghan Mushrooms.

IDA Ireland has confirmed that, whilst the lands in Monaghan are on the market, IDA officials have met with the Monaghan County Manager to discuss the best utilisation of the lands for industrial and employment purposes. I am assured that discussions between IDA Ireland, Monaghan County Council and any third parties will continue to ensure the best utilisation of the lands at Knockaconny.