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Statement by Minister of State for the Gaeltacht regarding Largo Foods

The Minister of State at the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Dinny McGinley T.D., regrets the announcement by Largo Foods today. The company has announced that it is to undertake a consultation process with its staff in Gaoth Dobhair, Co. Donegal, and that it intends to transfer its business from there to the company's main plant in Ashbourne, Co. Meath.

The Minister of State said: "I am very disappointed at the announcement by Largo Foods today. While I welcome the company's plan to offer 70 of its employees in Gaoth Dobhair the opportunity to transfer to Ashbourne, I would prefer if these jobs remained in the Gaeltacht. Accordingly, I intend to offer every assistance I can to Údarás na Gaeltachta to support them in attracting new jobs to Gaoth Dobhair. I have asked the Údarás to take whatever steps are required to commence this work immediately. As Minister of State for the Gaeltacht, I understand the importance of employment in retaining sustainable communities in Gaeltacht areas. I will take all necessary actions to support the Údarás in its role as the economic agency for the Gaeltacht."