Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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448. To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the sites, buildings and locations suitable for specific investment (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31326/15]

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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IDA Ireland markets Laois as part of its Midlands Region, which comprises 4 counties - Westmeath, Longford, Laois and Offaly. There are 35 multinational companies based in the Midlands, employing 4,032 across the Region. The agency is actively pursuing investment opportunities in its main markets (US and Europe) as well as positioning the region for newer opportunities in growth markets (Asia Pacific) and emerging companies (smaller companies with high growth). The IDA Ireland business and technology park in Portlaoise is a 16-hectare site with additional land available for further FDI development. Its tenants include Aubren (an Enterprise Ireland client company) and Internal Results, which announced the expansion of its operation in July. On the park, there is the 17,092 sq. ft. Advance Office Building, which is partly occupied (3,400 sq. ft.) by Internal Results. IDA Ireland continuously reviews its property options, including potential land acquisitions and disposals in the Midlands Region.

A digital marketing campaign is in place to market the Midlands Region for potential investors. This is used overseas by IDA Ireland executives, to showcase potential locations within the Midlands Region including Portlaoise. The agency has regular engagement with the Chief Executive of Laois County Council to ensure that there is a continuous line of communication open and a mutually supportive approach taken, considering the role that Local Authorities now have for economic development.

IDA continues to actively engage with existing clients in the region to support them in growing their business to retain jobs and expand their existing footprint in the region.