Ollie Wilkinson (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

I thank Deputy O'Shea for affording me the opportunity to say a few words on a black and dismal day for our part of west Waterford. Waterford Crystal is not alone a great Waterford industry, but has been a flagship Irish concern recognised throughout the world for the production of an amazing product. The company's workers were highly skilled and the industry provided tremendous employment over many years. While we have been aware for some time that all was not well in Waterford Crystal, when the news broke yesterday there was great shock that a company which had seemed invincible was in serious trouble. I can only hope the restructuring in the industry will ensure the company again becomes viable and can recover its former glory.

I have no doubt the Minister and job creating agencies will respond to my request to take a serious look at Dungarvan. County Waterford is a vibrant place which has sustained a significant shock. I ask the Minister and job creating agencies to work together to ensure the great workers involved are provided with employment which compensates them for what they have lost.

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