As union members and residents of the Gaeltacht we are unwilling to stand back and watch our fellow workers treated as if they are mere pawns in some rich man's game.
We hold the view, which is shared by ever more people including some economis
ts, politicians, some unions and even business representatives, that this state cannot afford any more job losses. Most definitely this part of Donegal cannot.
Largo may argue that their business is their business but it is in all our interests to know how Largo Foods made use of any grants that may have been awarded to them for example. If this company is no longer viable, let them prove this by presenting their accounts for inspection.
It is the workers who have helped create the wealth of this company. It is also they who help their communities to function. Their ability to earn their living within the Gaeltacht is vital and it will allow their continued involvement with local schools, churches, football clubs, credit unions, etc.
I ask those whom we have entrusted with power, what would the Gaeltacht without its people mean for them? What we need is a genuine effort by the workers, Údarás and local politicians to find a way of retaining all jobs within this company.
The Independent Workers Union interest is genuine. It is about the reasons stated and the time-honoured trade union principle – 'an injury to one, is the concern of all'.
Yours,
Owen Curran,
Member, I.W.U. Donegal.
