Minister Martin responds to job losses at NEC, Balivor, February 21 ^st 2006

Micheál Martin TD Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment this evening expressed his deep disappointment at the announcement by NEC, Ballivor that they are to close their operations.

Minister Martin said “This news comes as a huge blow to the NEC workers. I am very conscious of the effect that these job losses will have on the workers involved and their families, as well as the community in the surrounding area. I wish to assure all concerned that the State agencies will provide every support they can. The priority will be to find alternative employment for those involved”.

The Minister continued “This evening I have arranged that FAS will carry out an immediate assessment of the skills of the workforce and to arrange whatever retraining may be necessary to help those involved find alternative employment".

Ends/ ETE 1531