Statement from Údarás na Gaeltachta regarding SLM Connect Teo., Gaoth Dobhair (21/12/17)
Údarás na Gaeltachta is disappointed by the reports being received that SLM Ceangail Éire Teo. have terminated the employment of all of their staff today (21/12/17). This is a significant blow to the company’s current employees and to others who had recently secured new jobs in the company, particularly in advance of the Christmas period. Although company management maintained customary and regular correspondence with Údarás na Gaeltachta, as late as yesterday evening, Údarás were not given any indication that the company was to close today. Údarás have not received any contact from the company in this regard as yet.
In line with its standard support schemes, Údarás na Gaeltachta approved a comprehensive support package for SLM Ceangail Éire Teo. when they were first established in Gaoth Dobhair in early 2016 and every appropriate assistance and support possible under state aid rules was made available to the Company. There were 32 people employed in the company (24 full time and 8 part time) and it is reported that 8 new posts were to commence in the company in January. A total of €171,467 in grant aid (Employment & Training Grants & Rental Subsidy) has been paid to the company to date. When the appropriate details are officially confirmed as regards reports of the companies liquidation Údarás na Gaeltachta will take all appropriate steps as regards recoupment of state aid invested.
Mícheál Ó hÉanaigh, Chief Executive Údarás na Gaeltachta said “This news is a significant source of disappointment for the Gaoth Dobhair community just before the Christmas period and especially for the workers who have lost their jobs today. Údarás na Gaeltachta will continue with our diligent efforts to create new jobs on Gaoth Dobhair Business Park.”
