Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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269. To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the outcome of his discussions with an insurance company (details supplied) in relation to the need to retain the maximum level of employment in its office in Cavan town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29625/15]

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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My Department has been in touch with the relevant bodies in this case, to ensure that Liberty Insurance’s staff are aware of their entitlements and the range of assistance and services generally which are available from the State.

The National Employments Rights Authority, which is an Agency of my Department, have made themselves available to deal with any employment rights issues which may arise for the staff impacted by this decision.

The Department of Social Protection has already been in touch with the company with a view to arrange briefing sessions for employees. These briefings were arranged for last week, to advise the employees who opt for voluntary redundancies on the Intreoprocess, on jobseeker’s payments and on redundancy entitlements, as well as information on other schemes. One to one consultations will also be arranged with the employees.

The Guidance Staff of the Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB) have already made contact with the company, with a view to establishing the precise number and timescale of impending job losses. In due course, the CMETB will provide individual appointments and follow-up meetings as well as collective staff briefings on emerging up-skilling and re-skilling opportunities.

The CMETB Skills for Work Programme will also be available in this case. Tailored Training Programmes will also be designed and delivered in light of emerging opportunities in relation to training needs being identified.

It is premature to talk of “an outcome” so early in the process. Employees have to consider what options best suit their situation and to act accordingly. I am hopeful that when this process is complete that the company’s future in Cavan will be stabilised and that significant employment will be maintained there.