Sligo job creation infrastructure
Deputy Scanlon urges action on IDA land access and funding for an inner relief road in Sligo to support job creation. The Minister says IDA Ireland has committed to an advanced facility and the Government remains strongly committed to regional enterprise support.
The next three questions are from Deputies Scanlon, Martin Kenny and Fitzpatrick. I will review any more that arise after that.
Comment on this
The programme for Government gives a commitment to provide funding to IDA Ireland and local authorities for job creation. Currently in Sligo, IDA Ireland has not a square inch of land on which to build a plant or factory. This is because Finisklin industrial estate is full. The IDA has other lands but they need to access them. The local authority has applied for funding for an inner relief road in Sligo which will cost around €14 million. I appeal to the Minister and to the Minister of State, Deputy Phelan, who is seated behind, him to expedite this.
Comment on this
I understand IDA Ireland has committed to an advanced facility in Sligo. Land acquisition is an element in that. I will draw IDA Ireland's attention to the Deputy's concern over progress but this was one of the significant elements in the new regional enterprise strategy, that the regions would be supported through the IDA as well as Enterprise Ireland. It is something to which the Government is very strongly committed.