TD says UK deal puts Bord na Mona jobs in Kildare at risk

Sinn Fein T D Brian Stanley claimed that jobs of Bord Na Mona workers at Kilberry near Athy are at risk following the decision by the company to purchase a horticulture peat plant in the North of England.

As former employee, Mr Stanley said he is 'very concerned' about this development.

He said: "This decision, which required government approval, was signed off on by Minister Denis Naughton over the Christmas period and poses a direct threat to the future of Kilberry.

Currently, horticultural peat that is produced at Kilberry near Athy and Coolnamona in Laois is used to supply a large section of the British market, including large retail chain stores such as B&Q.

Mr Stanley added: "Once Bord Na Mona starts production in the plant near Manchester, it will lead to a scaling back of their operations in Kildare and Laois and job losses.

"I have discussed this in recent days with both the CEO of Bord Na Mona Mike Quinn and Minister Denis Naughton and expressed my concern about the future of the industry.

"While the management are saying that some of the jobs can be absorbed elsewhere in the company, the loss of any jobs in South Kildare where employment is already scarce will have a severe impact in the area."

The TD said that Bord Na Mona was established as an indigenous semi state company to provide employment and industry in counties like Kildare and Laois. and that as a a publicly owned entity this must remain its main objectives.

He added: "The company now need to set out a strategic plan for the future use of the large land holdings and plant that it owns both in this part of South Kildare and in Laois."

The TD said he will be following up on the issue with both with Bord Na Mona management and Minister Naughton.