asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the difficulty in getting employment in south west Cork at present; and, if so, if he will request the IDA to provide additional jobs in the area.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Cork Employment.
33.
I am aware of the industrial development needs of the area concerned. I am informed by the IDA that at present there is one expansion project under construction and that negotiations are in progress in the case of a further three projects. The total employment involved in these projects is expected to be of the order of 530 at full production. In addition, as already indicated, it is proposed to establish two advance factories in the area. Seven small industry projects are also being processed for south west Cork.
Is the Minister aware that in south-west Cork, in Clonakilty, Skibbereen and Dunmanway, it is impossible for a worker to get employment? Will all these jobs ever materialise?
They have not had much of a chance yet.
Can the Minister say in any definite terms when it is likely additional jobs will be provided in such centres? I am well aware, as chairman of the South Western Regional Development Association that these are only paper jobs.
One, Rowa Limited, are opening a factory in Bantry and the estimated employment is for 75. There is a long list of other proposals but they must be regarded as confidential and I cannot give details to the Deputy. The total employment involved in these projects is expected to be for 530.
Is the Minister indicating that there is a likelihood of 500 additional jobs or is it intended to deceive people to stay there until such jobs become available? I am asking that to get a straightforward and definite estimate from the Minister as to the prospect of jobs being provided in the area.
I have told the Deputy what the position is. The factory under construction in Bantry will employ 75 people and the industries which are being negotiated for at the moment at various stages would employ a further 530 people.
It reminds me of the 100,000 jobs in 1957.