Westport factories and site search
The IDA expects Allergan Pharmaceuticals to take over Westport’s existing advance factory and begin production in January 1978, while seeking a site for a larger proposed factory. Gallagher raised local concern about delays and pressed for details; Bruton said Westport is a priority and the IDA is working to secure a site quickly.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if the IDA have any immediate plans to provide industry at Westport, County Mayo.
Comment on this
I have been informed by the Industrial Development Authority that a US company, Allergan Pharmaceuticals, will shortly take over the advance factory already constructed in Westport by the authority. I expect that production will begin in January of next year.
As already announced, the IDA propose to build a 24,000 sq. ft. advance factory in Westport. A suitable site for this factory is at present being sought.
Comment on this
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that there is a great deal of unrest in Westport because this company which was supposed to commence training workers in January have not come to the town and do not seem to be making any progress towards commencing work at the advance factory there?
Comment on this
My information is that the company will shortly move into the factory and is expected to begin production in January, 1978. The keys will, in fact, be formally handed over by the Minister to the company on 9th May, 1977.
Comment on this
Can the Parliamentary Secretary say if any site has been selected for the advance factory he mentioned? Has a short list been prepared or what is the position?
Comment on this
The position is that it is being sought at the moment, no doubt with the co-operation of the local authority, which is appreciated.
Comment on this
Can the Parliamentary Secretary be more definite? Is there any site available or have any sites been short listed?
Comment on this
I have already said that a site is being sought. I cannot give specific information about individual sites which are possibly being considered but the IDA are anxious that this factory would be built as soon as possible. Westport is being treated as a priority area by the IDA because of the employment problem in the area and, in the light of that, I have no doubt every effort is being made to get this advance factory and the site for it ready quickly. It is worth noting this is a particularly large advance factory, much larger than the type of advance factory built generally in the past.
26.