The Government regrets very much that Apple Computer has decided to cease production of its IMAC computer at its Cork facility with the loss of 450 jobs. It is a severe blow to the workers involved and to the Cork community. I can assure them that the full machinery of the State will be brought to bear on assisting those who are losing their jobs to find alternative employment.

I regret that the company has indicated that its decision to re-locate the production of IMAC was irreversible. The company has said, however, that it intends that Cork will continue as the headquarters of its European operation and the centre for production of the G3 based desktop systems.

Every support will be given to employees at Apple to find new jobs and, in this respect, employment prospects in Cork are positive at present. FÁS will immediately meet management and employees to undertake skills profiles and plan training. Everything possible will be done by FÁS to enhance employees prospects for re-employment.

Since this Government came into office 23 IDA backed projects involving over £600 million investment have been announced and are underway in Cork. These projects have the potential to create nearly 7,000 new jobs and over 1,000 of these jobs are to be filled this year. There is likely to be a good match between the skills and experience of the Apple workers and many of the new jobs emerging in Cork. In addition, IDA Ireland will actively promote the vacated areas of the Hollyhill Apple Plant. The agency, on my instruction, will pursue every avenue to find new industries for the North city area.