It is always a matter of deep regret when a business closes suddenly.
In cases where prior notification of business closures are received by this Department, planned engagements to notify and inform employees of their entitlements and of the supports available may be considered on a case by case basis. In this particular case this opportunity was not afforded to this Department. I can however advise that former employees of the Abberley Court Hotel have already begun engaging with this Department’s services, and in some cases payments are already being made.
The services and supports that are available to jobseekers and to those persons who have recently become unemployed are provided by this Department under the Intreo model of service delivery. This model provides access to income supports and to employment services in one location.
The Intreo service offers expert assistance and advice on employment, education, training and personal development opportunities. The Department’s case officers will work with the former Abberley Court employees and will focus on their needs in order to assist them to re-enter the workforce.
Further information on the Intreo and other services provided by the Department of Social Protection is available to jobseekers at www.welfare.ie.