Local Deputy Fergus O’Dowd and Tanaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Leo Varadkar have both said that they are extremely concerned about the future of the Premier Periclase factory and its workforce.
“Today I met with the directors of Premier Periclase and we held a full and frank discussion on their immediate and future plans for the site and the possibility of safeguarding the remaining 46 workforce” Deputy O’Dowd said.
“I have been in ongoing discussions with the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Leo Varadkar, to ensure that any and all government supports are made available to mitigate or offset any possible redundancies, and that Enterprise Ireland engage intensively with the company at this critical juncture.
My colleague An Tánaiste, Leo Varadkar, confirmed to me that this situation was being dealt with at the very highest level.
“The company are today meeting with the Chief Executive of Enterprise Ireland, Leo Clancy, and I hope that progress will be made.
“I have met with the workers representatives and I have been in regular communication with them to support them at this very difficult time.”
Mr. Varadkar said he shared Deputy O’Dowd’s concerns but added that they will be doing everything possible to assist the workers and the company.
“Enterprise Ireland (EI) has been working with Premier Periclase throughout this difficult period” he said. “That engagement has intensified in recent days, and I have asked EI to keep me informed of developments having raised the matter at the most senior levels.
“Department officials are currently developing special loans and grants to support companies facing liquidity and energy-cost challenges.
“As with all State Aid under the Temporary Crisis Framework, prior approval from the EU Commission is required, and this was granted on 11 August 2022 following a notification from the Department at the end of June.
“It will be later this year before this scheme can be started and it is not possible to give an exact start date at this point. The scheme will not be open to all firms affected by high energy prices. It will be targeted at those that are vulnerable but viable and have a credible survival and adaptation plan.
In the coming days, Enterprise Ireland will be working closely with the company to discuss what assistance can be made available from existing schemes.
