asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Tourism when the IDA will commence construction of the proposed advance factory cluster unit at Bantry, County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I am informed that the Industrial Development Authority have agreed to purchase the land required for the proposed 12,000 square feet small factory cluster unit at Bantry provided that planning permission on a satisfactory basis can be obtained from the county council.

Is the Minister aware of the difficulties regarding planning permission in this case? Could he say if he or the Department have made any contact with the county council since this decision to try to resolve the matter and expedite this development?

I initiated discussions between the IDA and the county council on this and other matters that are causing some concern to the IDA and others. These discussions are still taking place with particular reference to Bantry and I am looking forward to a satisfactory solution.

When does the Minister expect the planning problems to be finalised?

They are being discussed at the present time and the sooner there is a solution the better. I also think they will be the subject matter of an offer at a council meeting during the month.

Would the Minister expect the matter could be finalised within six months?

I hope so but I cannot be definite about it.