Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Both the Minister, Deputy Humphreys, and I are very conscious of the situation with HCL Technologies and those affected employees. I can understand exactly the Deputy's position given that many of these jobs are in her constituency in Dublin 1. Our thoughts are certainly with those affected.

It is not easy when one loses one's job, particularly when the economy is buoyant and there may not be any other opportunities. It will suit some employees to transfer to Cork or Limerick but it will not suit others, for family or other reasons. The Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection, Deputy Regina Doherty, has sent in a team from Intreo to deal with the matter. The Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Heather Humphreys, and I have spoken to IDA Ireland to look at other job opportunities and any need to upskill. We hope IDA Ireland will continue to engage with HCL to look at potential alternatives for investment and growth for these people who, unfortunately, find themselves in this position.

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