asked the Minister for Industry, Trade, Commerce and Tourism if he is aware of the imminent closure of a firm (details supplied) in County Cork; and the plans he has for the retention of the jobs affected.

I am aware of the imminent closure of the firm in question. I regret this decision, which I understand is due to heavy trading losses in recent years and contraction of demand in the main markets served by the firm's products. The Industrial Development Authority are now actively promoting the factory for a possible takeover or replacement industry.

Will the Minister tell me the present number of unemployed in Clonakilty town area and if he is aware of the appalling job losses not alone in this industry but in a number of others? Will he initiate a rescue operation for the area to try to secure the jobs and improve the situation there?

The question refers specifically to a company and I will address myself to the question put. I submit that the question of the area is a different question. I can say that the company to which the Deputy refers was profitable up to the end of 1979 but has sustained losses since then. Indeed, the company got substantial aid in an effort to establish them as a viable company.

Is the Minister aware that this company has been set up for less than ten years? In the circumstances will they have to make a refund of some of the substantial incomes they received from the IDA?

It may very well be that a proportion of the grants paid to the company will be repayable. It will be a matter for the IDA to decide.