I propose to take Questions Nos. 226 to 228, inclusive, together.
In situations such as this, the legal process for the appointment of a liquidator is fully prescribed in statute and a matter entirely for the Courts. My Department therefore has neither a direct role in proceedings nor any involvement with the legal documentation that may be lodged.
When a company acquires another undertaking in Ireland, the financial details of such transactions – or the corporate strategies of the businesses involved – are not generally shared with my Department or its Agencies. That was also the case in this instance.
On many occasions when company takeovers occur there is a positive outcome for the businesses and employees involved. Unfortunately that was not the result in the case in question. My Department and its Agencies will, however, do the utmost to find new investors for the region and employment opportunities for those who have lost their jobs.