Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Deputy Bruton, would know Bord na Móna made a decision to cease its peat processing operations in Littleton, with the consequent loss of 120 jobs, which has had a devastating impact on the local economy and community. Subsequent to that, Bord na Móna announced the closure of a number of facilities in the midlands. Arising from that, the Government made a just transition fund available to assist in providing alternative options and creating alternative jobs for people who have lost their jobs. Could the Minister confirm that Littleton in County Tipperary is not excluded from that programme? Could he confirm what the criteria are and if the criteria for access to the programme have been finalised? Are the Government and the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment in communication and in negotiation with the European Commission on the possible application of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund for all the plants that have closed in the midlands and in Littleton?

See this speech in context