Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to voice my concern at the situation which could develop at Liebherr (Ireland) Limited in Killarney. It appears that a majority of the 300 workers there who are members of SIPTU have voted against a resolution. There are over 670 people employed at the plant, on an average of €55,000 per annum. I appeal to everybody involved to step back from the brink. I also appeal to everyone to take on board the statement made by the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Bruton, today regarding the matter. I also appeal to everyone to take note of a statement issued by SIPTU, which I have not yet seen. All of the industrial relations machinery of the State is available. There is plenty of room for talking and one cannot beat dialogue. That is the only way this problem is going to be resolved. Liebherr (Ireland) Limited has been based in Killarney since 1958 and is one of the greatest industries in Kerry, if not in the entire south west of the country. It has expanded and had great success over the years, to the benefit of the industry itself and the employees who have worked there.

I thank the Cathaoirleach for his indulgence and appeal to everybody to step back from the brink and engage in dialogue immediately.