Bobby Aylward (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 127: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when payments in lieu of eight weeks notice and in lieu of holidays will issue to the former employees of a company (details supplied). [26304/09]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I can confirm that between March and May of this year, my Department has received 1,623 applications under the Insolvency Payments Scheme for Arrears of Wages, Holiday Pay and Minimum Notice on behalf of the former employees of Waterford Crystal. These claims are currently being processed. It has however been necessary to seek further information from the Receiver and a response is currently awaited. Subject to receipt of all required information from the Receiver, it is hoped to complete processing and make payments in respect of these claims within two to three weeks.

I should point out that the impact on business of the severe economic circumstances currently pertaining has resulted in a significant rise in the level of company receiverships and insolvencies. Consequently, an increasing number of claims are being submitted to the Insolvency Payments Section, with 9,509 new claims recorded from January 1 to May 31 — an increase of over 226% against the corresponding figure for this period in 2008. My officials endeavour to process all claims as quickly as possible and claims are dealt with in order of date of receipt.