Tánaiste to host video call on investment in Ballinasloe – Dolan

The Tánaiste will host a video call with relevant State agencies and local authorities focusing on investment and job creation in Ballinasloe, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Senator Aisling Dolan said: “I have been in constant communication with the Tánaiste about replacing jobs losses in Ballinasloe after the decision by Aptar to close its facility here earlier this year.

“The Tánaiste acknowledged my concerns when speaking in the Dáil this week and confirmed that Ballinasloe is a priority for the Government.

“I am pleased to confirm the Tánaiste will host a video call with the relevant agencies in the coming weeks with a focus on investment in the area.

“The Tánaiste visited the town last February with me and met different groups in the Shearwater Hotel where we spoke about the importance of investment in Ballinasloe.

“I look forward to welcoming him again when public health conditions allow.”

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar, said: “I know that Aisling has been working hard on this issue over the past few months and engaging with my Department and IDA officials.

“The job losses are very disappointing but Ballinasloe has a lot to offer and I have asked our agencies, particularly the IDA, to work on creating new employment opportunities in the area.”

Senator Dolan continued: “The recent job losses have had a serious impact on the community, local families and their incomes.

“Together with all public representatives in the area, we must work tirelessly to replace these jobs and create more employment in the area.

“Ballinasloe is the perfect location for FDI investment off the M6 motorway and only an hour and 20 minutes to Dublin airport.  We have skilled graduates and access to third level expertise with Athlone IT as part of a new Technological University (TU) on our doorstep. We are focused on future industries such as life sciences, healthcare and medtech industries.

“The majority of employees finished in Aptar at the end of October and I’ve spoken to many who have highlighted the excellent teams and high productivity levels at the plant in Ballinasloe.

“I’ve held recent meetings with IDA who have noted that we have a high-quality site. With a scale of over 65,000 sq ft for future investment, it is one of few sites of this size in the country.

“There is also potential for expansion with landbanks available within the IDA Business Park.

“I am committed to working with the Tánaiste to ensure we find a replacement employer and secure a significant investment in Ballinasloe as soon as possible.”

ENDS