asked the Minister for Industry, Trade, Commerce and Tourism if he is aware of the closure with a loss of 30 jobs of a firm (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will contact all of the State agencies with a view to assisting in the re-opening of the firm.

I understand that the directors of the company in question decided to close the factory on 8 March owing to substantial financial difficulties and continuing losses. I understand that a liquidator has recently been appointed to the company. The IDA will co-operate fully with the liquidator and make every effort to secure a suitable take-over of the assets.

It would be a matter for the promoters of any new project emerging to contact any other State agencies which they might feel could be of assistance to them.