Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome Mr. Meagher and congratulate him on his appointment as chairman of the company. His CV is impressive. He has a varied and extensive range of experience, and I am satisfied that he has the ability and commitment to give leadership and guidance to Bord na Móna at a time of great change and challenge for the company.

Mr. Meagher is aware that we in Tipperary are conscious of the fact that we have lost our briquette factory at Littleton. It is a significant blow to the workforce, their dependants, the local community and the local economy. In recent months, efforts have been made to resolve the issue of redundancies and the terms and conditions of disemployment. The workforce has been patient and engaged with Bord na Móna.

Next Wednesday is an important date in the negotiations. After a long engagement, there is little left dividing the company and the workforce from reaching an agreement. I ask that the chairman designate convey to his team representing the company in those negotiations the urgency of finalising the redundancy package. The company must understand that there is a need to be more generous in its approach. I have an indication of the figures that are preventing the negotiations from reaching a conclusion. The company owes it to the workforce to put an increased offer on the table for the final set of negotiations next Wednesday.

The workforce at Littleton has been committed and dedicated. It has given years of loyal service to the company. The least that workers should expect in return is for a generous package that reflects their commitment to be finalised in the coming weeks, if not week.

I ask Mr. Meagher to take back to his company the message that this is a matter of urgency and that there needs to be a conclusion at the earliest possible time.