TOWN GETS �1.5m FACTORY
Bomb attack town gets �1.5m jobs bid factory
By Rosie Cowan
Business Editor
THE Industrial Development Board is to build a state-of-the art advance factory in Omagh, in a bid to attract investors to the bomb-shattered town.
Economy Minister Adam Ingram announced plans for the 30,000 sq ft plant, costing around �1.5m, which will be sited at IDB's Doogary West estate in Omagh.
No tenant has yet been lined up for the plant, but IDB believes that having it ready and waiting within the next nine months could prove a crucial factor in getting an overseas investor to move in.
The tragedy of the 29 people killed and more than 200 injured in the attack on August 15 has been compounded by the difficulties faced by local business people in the aftermath or the bomb.
The local Chamber of Commerce handed a letter to President Clinton on his recent visit to the town, urging him to encourage would-be American investors to consider siting their European bases in Omagh.
Mr Ingram said: "This development reflects the Government's commitment to promote industry and expand job opportunities in this area of social need.
"It is imperative now that concrete help is given quickly in the aftermath of the recent atrocity and in response to the request by the people of Omagh for help.
"Omagh has been a high priority area for IDB investment and trade support activities. I am confident the advance factory can be constructed quickly and cost-effectively.
"The new unit will be of interest to overseas businesses seeking an operational base in Northern Ireland to serve export markets.
"It will be suitable for both manufacturing and tradeable service industries.
"An important attraction for potential investors is the availability of labour in the area, particularly young people who are seeking jobs and keen to take part in training programmes."
By Rosie Cowan
Business Editor
THE Industrial Development Board is to build a state-of-the art advance factory in Omagh, in a bid to attract investors to the bomb-shattered town.
Economy Minister Adam Ingram announced plans for the 30,000 sq ft plant, costing around �1.5m, which will be sited at IDB's Doogary West estate in Omagh.
No tenant has yet been lined up for the plant, but IDB believes that having it ready and waiting within the next nine months could prove a crucial factor in getting an overseas investor to move in.
The tragedy of the 29 people killed and more than 200 injured in the attack on August 15 has been compounded by the difficulties faced by local business people in the aftermath or the bomb.
The local Chamber of Commerce handed a letter to President Clinton on his recent visit to the town, urging him to encourage would-be American investors to consider siting their European bases in Omagh.
Mr Ingram said: "This development reflects the Government's commitment to promote industry and expand job opportunities in this area of social need.
"It is imperative now that concrete help is given quickly in the aftermath of the recent atrocity and in response to the request by the people of Omagh for help.
"Omagh has been a high priority area for IDB investment and trade support activities. I am confident the advance factory can be constructed quickly and cost-effectively.
"The new unit will be of interest to overseas businesses seeking an operational base in Northern Ireland to serve export markets.
"It will be suitable for both manufacturing and tradeable service industries.
"An important attraction for potential investors is the availability of labour in the area, particularly young people who are seeking jobs and keen to take part in training programmes."
Further Information
Publisher: BELFAST TELEGRAPH
Ref: BT/0409
Published Date: 14-Sep-98
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