§ Rev. Ian Paisleyasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the negotiations he has had with the German company Mota-Redga for location of its factory in Carrickfergus; and whether he has any information why the firm chose Buncrana in the Republic of Ireland.
§ Mr. Adam Butler[pursuant to his reply, 30 July 1981]: As the hon. Gentleman will be aware, discussions between the Government and potential investors in Northern Ireland are regarded as strictly confidential, and to disclose details of any negotiations which take place would undoubtedly harm the Department's credibility and prejudice future talks with industrialists.
I can say, however, that during the last year officials have been involved in extremely active negotiations with Gesellschaft Fur Gross, the German company which is to set up in Buncrana under the name Mota-Redga. A generous package of assistance was offered to the company to establish its manufacturing operation in Carrickfergus. I understand that the company has simultaneously applied to the Industrial Development Authority in the Republic of Ireland for assistance and Northern Ireland officials were subsequently informed that 570W the company had decided to locate phase 1 of its operation at Buncrana. I am satisfied that everything possible was done by both Government officials and the local community to secure this project for Northern Ireland, but at the end of the day it is for the industrialist himself to decide where to locate his project. Unfortunately, on this occasion Northern Ireland was not chosen.
The hon. Gentleman may be assured that officials are continuing to canvass this company vigorously for any future developments which may be suited to the facilities which Carrickfergus can provide.