SUBCONTRACTORS and employees of Limerick-based construction firm Roadbridge must be allowed access social protection supports while the company is in receivership.
That’s the view of Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Workers’ Rights Louise O’Reilly who has called on the government to ensure that those affected can either claim social protection benefits or can move to new jobs, during the 30-day redundancy period.
“The news that Roadbridge, one of the country’s biggest civil engineering and construction firms, entered receivership came as a huge blow for workers and their families,” Deputy O’Reilly said.
“The news also come as a major blow to subcontractors, and their families, who now face a difficult period of uncertainty ahead.
“While receivers Grant Thornton go through the necessary processes over the next 30-days, it is important that workers and subcontractors affected have access to social welfare supports, and where they wish to undertake new employment, that they do not lose their redundancy entitlement as a result.
“Currently this is not the case, so these are simple changes the Minister for Social Protection and the Minister for Enterprise, Trade, and Employment can do immediately.
“At a higher level, Enterprise Ireland and the Tánaiste must engage with the company, which is said to have €900 million of contracts, some of them State contracts based in Ireland, and do all they can to help.”
