12 February 2009
Sargent Takes Action to Alleviate Dublin North Job Losses
In light of the news of the closure of SR Technics Dublin Airport facility and the reduction in Ryanair staff resources, Minister Sargent has been consulting with the Taoiseach, Tánaiste and the Minister of Transport to explore how best to mobilise the resources of the Government and State agencies to provide new employment opportunities for those being made redundant. Minister Sargent is working to bring together Government agencies, Fingal County Council, local Chambers of Commerce and other stakeholders at the earliest opportunity to plan a constructive response to the effects of the economic downturn on aviation.
Commenting on the news that SR Technics is to close its operation in Dublin Airport with the consequent loss of 1,135 jobs, the Minister had this to say: “This is dreadful news from SR Technics. This represents a major blow to the area. Unfortunately, the knock-on effect will almost certainly mean further job losses in the Airport and surrounding areas. The news of a further 200 jobs being lost in the Airport due to Ryanair reducing its summer schedule only serves to underline the urgent need to take immediate action. It is imperative that every avenue for finding replacement opportunities for these people be explored and new businesses be found for this vital economic hub. We need to look at all options to help alleviate this terrible situation.”
The Dublin Airport complex is a huge source of employment for the people of Dublin, in particular the Fingal area. Local towns are likely to feel the impact of these job losses most severely. While welcoming the news that SR Technics will continue its Cork operation, Minister Sargent described the news of the imminent closure of the Dublin operation as a “grim and tragic development for Fingal”. He also described as “a small crumb of comfort” the news that 200 jobs may be saved if SR Technics succeed in outsourcing its line maintenance contracts and that 60 apprentices may be facilitated to complete their apprenticeships.
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