Minister Michael Ahern expresses disappointment at Elba job losses

Minister Michael Ahern, T.D., Minister for Trade and Commerce this evening (Friday, 9^th February 2007) expressed his deep disappointment at the announcement by Elba Office Products Ltd., that they were to close their operations in Youghal by September 2007.

Minister Ahern said “Elba Office Products Ltd (formerly Avery Dennison) has provided valuable employment in Youghal over a long number of years and its closure will come as a huge shock to the workforce. 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 training may be necessary to help those involved find alternative employment”.

ENDS

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