New national Bioenergy campus planned for former Lisheen Mines Site – Cahill
– Major opportunity for increased local employment –
Fianna Fáil TD for Tipperary, Jackie Cahill has said that he is hopeful that strong employment opportunities will emerge as a result of the announcement of a €4.5 million grant by Enterprise Ireland for the old Lisheen Mines site.
Deputy Cahill was commenting after being informed that a new development is planned for the old site that will see the construction of a new national Bioenergy Campus at the site.
“I’m led to believe that Glanbia will play a major role in this development, and I am hopeful that many well-paying, local jobs will be created as a result. The development is a joint project between Tipperary County Council, Vedonta, LIT, UCD and TCD.
“Well over 12 months ago, I facilitated a meeting between the Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed TD and Professor Kevin O’Connor from UCC to look at options for the future use of this site.
“The Lisheen Mines site was a major local employer, and when it closed, there was a fear that the area would become an employment blackspot.
“Today’s announcement is a positive day for the entire local community. More work is required, but it’s a good start, especially with it being so close to Christmas.
“It’s a real vote of confidence in Mid-Tipperary, and one which I hope will spur on further investment in the area.
“Ever since the announcement to close was made by Vedonta, I have made the case for the site to be used as a hub for North Munster/South Leinster to attract major employers.
“Being close to a major rail line, the main Dublin to Cork motorway and the port in Limerick, the former Lisheen Mines site is an ideal location for a major new industry.
“I will be keeping an eye on this new development to ensure that it proceeds as quickly as possible, and will my office to support it every step of the way,” concluded Cahill.
