Storm over Mayo Computer Jobs
2 October 1996
SENATOR CALLS FOR UNITY TO SECURE FACTORY
Tom Kelly Reports
A POLITICAL row has blown up in Mayo over the failure of a major technology company, American Power Conversions, to deliver on their promise of providing 400 jobs by opening a plant in Castlebar.
The firm made the announcement amid a blaze of publicity almost a year ago. But no further progress has been made. . .much to the amazement of almost one thousand people who applied for jobs there.
Now a Mayo member of the Senate has issued a special call to all political representatives in the area to give their full support to Mr. Enda Kenny, T.D., Minister for Trade & Tourism, in his efforts to ensure the factory goes ahead in Castlebar after all.
Fine Gael Senator Paddy Burke said it was wrong for anybody to make political capital out of the affair at this point.
He explained: "I have been told by a very reliable source that nothing is hindering APC setting up in Castlebar.
"No effort is being spared to ensure the plant starts up in the town at the earlier possible date."
Senator Burke described statements made by Fianna Fail party representatives as 'doing a lot of damage' to efforts to have the factory located in Mayo.
"I am very disappointed about what some politicians in the county are saying.
"I can assure the public that Minister Kenny is working very hard on this matter, and all political parties should join him in his efforts.
"I have great faith that Minister Kenny will do everything to deliver the APC jobs."
Senator Burke called on Castlebar Urban Council to show leadership by backing the Minister's efforts.
Connaught Telegraph - News - October 1996
Connaught Telegraph - Sport - October 1996
