Helping Seagate employees remains a priority - Empey

19 February 2008

Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey, has outlined how his Department is helping employees affected by the Limavady Seagate plant closure.

Speaking today, Sir Reg, said: “Since the announcement of the closure my Department has been working hard with the employer, local Council and Chamber of Commerce and other associated stakeholders, to ensure that the employees’ needs are best met.  In conjunction with North West Regional College, we have drawn up a detailed Training Needs Analysis to identify any training and up-skilling that the employees require to help them find suitable alternative employment.  In partnership with other organisations, we will also be providing advice and guidance on self-employment, education, job search and benefit options.

“Over the coming months we plan to run job fairs in the Limavady area, where recruiting employers will be able to promote a range of employment options to those affected by the closure.

“I am confident that by taking this coordinated approach and working in partnership with the affected stakeholders we will be able to enhance the employment prospects for these employees.  This will in turn help to benefit the entire North West economy, which has over recent years suffered as a result of such closures.”

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