Nicky McFadden (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the number of Industrial Development Agency visits which were made to Mullingar in 2012; the number so far proposed for 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6452/13]

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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I am informed by IDA Ireland that it sponsored 7 site visits by potential investors to County Westmeath during 2012.

IDA Ireland has explained that, when considering where to locate their businesses in Ireland, potential investors usually undertake extensive research to inform their decisions and that such decisions are taken having regard to criteria such as the availability of transport and utilities infrastructure; suitably qualified personnel; professional business support services; and, zoned land and sites together with the potential to locate in existing industry clusters. In the main, companies indicate to IDA Ireland their location preferences following their own analysis.

The Agency has indicated that, in recognition of these, and in order to achieve regional economic development, it prioritises the marketing of Gateway locations, as outlined in the National Spatial Strategy, within each Region as the areas of critical mass and highlights the opportunities provided by Hub locations which are within commuting distances of these Gateways. In addition, IDA continues to promote other key locations as part of its marketing efforts and on an opportunistic basis and in response to specific client requirements.

Westmeath is part of IDA Ireland’s Midlands Region along with Counties Longford, Laois, Offaly, and Roscommon. In this region IDA prioritises the marketing of the linked Gateway of Athlone/Tullamore/Mullingar. Indeed, A project win in one Midlands location has a positive impact on the other surrounding areas due to the close proximity of all main locations.

There are currently 44 IDA Ireland client companies employing over 5,000 people in the Midlands Region. IDA Ireland has strong relationships with these companies and continues to work closely with them in order to ensure their long term sustainability and to encourage their growth, development and continuing re-investment in their sites.

In the light of the foregoing it is not possible for IDA Ireland to indicate, at this stage, the programme of sponsored site visits that the Agency will arrange for County Westmeath during 2013. I am aware, however, that Deputies on all sides of the House have expressed their concerns to me about the lack of site visits to certain regional locations and I propose to discuss this problem with IDA in the coming weeks.