There was an announcement yesterday by Lakeland Dairies that it is to close some of its plants in the Border area, including in Monaghan. It is a huge blow to the constituency, and the Border area, that two plants will close in the coming years as part of a strategic plan by the business, which will lead to the loss of jobs. Lakeland Dairies is one of the significant employers in the region. Any job losses in any area, particularly in rural areas such as mine, are very impactful in a very adverse way. Will there be Government support for Lakeland Dairies as it tries to strategise for the future and take into account the needs of the farmers it represents right across the area?

I was very disappointed by the news regarding Lakeland Dairies. I assure the Deputy that the State agencies will liaise with both the company and the workers who may be affected. It should be noted that the co-operative said in its statement that there will be redeployment opportunities for some staff into vacant positions in the business. It has commenced an engagement and consultation process directly with staff and their unions. Notwithstanding that, some people will lose their jobs. It remains to be seen whether that will be done entirely on a voluntary basis and if those who want to stay in the employment of the co-operative will be given an opportunity to redeploy to another facility. The company has also indicated its intention to sell its sites in Monaghan and Banbridge after their closure. There may be employment opportunities arising from that. The key point is the redeployment opportunity and the engagement with staff. Again, I assure the Deputy that the State agencies will work with the co-operative and the workers who may be affected.

Sin deireadh le gnó na maidine. Glacfaimid sos anois ar feadh 40 nóiméad.