Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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91. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the up-to-date position regarding the commencement of operations at a facility (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9620/22]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Central Pharma took a long-term lease on the Advance Technology Building in Tralee. I understand the company subsequently experienced delays in progressing its plans in part due to Covid-19 restrictions preventing work on site from commencing.

I am told Central Pharma’s total investment into the facility to date (including construction, rent and salaries paid) is approximately €1.1m. The company obtained three key licensing approvals from the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA), concluding in September 2021.

I have been informed that Central Pharma is currently recruiting for a production manager and is still planning to commence production activities in Q1 2022. Central Pharma has recruited a Head of Warehousing and a Business Development Specialist and plans to add production employees over the first three months of operations.

Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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92. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the up-to-date position regarding the provision of a facility (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9621/22]

Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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93. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if consideration has been given to the possible provision of a facility (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9622/22]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 92 and 93 together.

IDA Ireland is committed to building a new Advanced Technology Building in Tralee. I am advised that the IDA is continuing to engage with stakeholders to seek a suitable site for this proposed building. Securing planning permission and the construction of the building will take time, but it is intended that the building will be delivered during the life of the current IDA Strategy to 2024. The advanced technology building may support either a new office or industrial investment given the flexible nature of IDA buildings.

The are no plans at this time for additional advance buildings in Kerry beyond what is outlined in the Strategy.

The 2021-2024 Strategy also states that IDA will continue to work closely with the private sector to secure the provision of appropriate and cost-effective building and property solutions for client companies and also that additional upgrade works and investment are planned for IDA Parks in the region.

IDA Ireland continues to engage with new companies on promoting Ireland as a location for their business and the Agency will continue to position County Kerry for virtual and in-person site visits over 2022 and beyond.