While the pension levy debate rages in Dail Eireann, attention is et again been drawn away from the most important issue in our state, job creation.
This afternoon, at the request of CEO Joe Keeling and his two Managing Directors, Caroline & David Keeling I visited the Keeling’s facility at Roslin, St. Margaret’s just south of Swords. The company which was started on the site in the 1930’s employs almost 1,700 people and has ambitious plans to double that figure in the future.
The Keelings have a sum of close to €20 Million to invest along with a further €30-40 Million which is envisaged will be invested by others in a “food park & distribution facility” along side the airport in the heart of the bread basket that is Fingal.
Fingal County Council have embarked on the Development Plan 2011 – 2017 and as part of this strategic plan, the Councillors of Fingal will deliberate on what direction we in Fingal County Council plant to take in terms of job protection and creation in Dublin North.
Today, I saw a robust facility teraming with employees whjich Keelings hope to grow and grow into the future. I intend to play my part in assisting them in achieving future sustainable growth for both the company and the local jobs market in the north county.
Their strategic vision is to engage with the Council not only to create a master plan for the development of their circa 500 acre site to enlarge their own business but also to encourage businesses with the industry to locate here.
I would like to thank the Keelings for inviting me to their terrific facility and I look forward to doing what I can to assist them in growing jobs in Fingal
Note to readers: There are 1.5 Million strawberries/600 tonnes currently growing along with 1,500 tones of peppers in Keelings today (photos attached). Also within the facility, there are 1 Million bananas ripening per week, 9 Million locally grown lillies and an amazing 70% of all horticultural crops (excluding mushrooms) are produced right here in Fingal.