Prayers offered at Masses today throughout the Diocese of Kilmore for Quinn staff and their families

02 May 2010

PRESS RELEASE
2 May 2010

Prayers offered at Masses today throughout the Diocese of Kilmore for Quinn staff and their families

Prayers were offered at Masses today, throughout the Diocese of Kilmore, for Quinn staff and their families.  Bishop Leo O’Reilly, Bishop of Kilmore, said “I am deeply saddened and concerned that Quinn motor insurance is to lose 940 jobs. This is a severe blow to the people involved, their families and the local economy.  During these difficult times I am praying for everybody and especially for those whose livelihoods are directly affected by this decision.

“Our prayers at Masses this weekend have been dedicated to the intentions of those who are affected in any way by Friday’s redundancy announcement made by the provisional administrators of Quinn insurance.  We pray also for the viability of the remaining jobs in Quinn insurance.

“Friday’s announcement not only directly affects Quinn workers but in addition it jeopardises thousands of ancillary jobs which have been created, since the late 1990’s, to support the services offered by Quinn motor insurance.

“I reiterate the need for the private sector and relevant State agencies to prioritise Cavan, Fermanagh, Leitrim, Sligo and Meath in terms of offering new employment opportunities to this skilled workforce.

“The economic progress experienced over the last decade in these counties is no small part due to the Quinn group of companies.  It is incumbent on public representatives, North and South, to continue to seek a commitment from government to support these workers by every means possible.  With the economy in recession our community needs such support today more than ever.”

ENDS

Further information:
Martin Long, Director of Communications 086 172 7678