Councillors discuss impact of Roadbridge receivership on Mayo businesses

THE monies outstanding in Mayo as a result of Roadbridge being placed in receivership is believed to be over €10 million.

Its impact on sub-contractors and suppliers, especially in the Erris area, was commented on at the monthly meeting of Mayo County Council.

Councillor Gerry Coyle said people had supported projects like the gas and windfarms for the jobs they would bring to Mayo. They never expected if one of the companies doing the projects went under that would take jobs out of Mayo.

That is what will happen unless something is done for the suppliers and small sub-contractors in the county.

His colleague Councillor Michael Loftus had called for a special meeting of the Oweninny windfarm board to discuss the matter.

The money in Mayo is over €10 million, he continued. If that is the case there is not many companies that were involved with this company that would survive.

Councillor Coyle said he was trying to establish if there was a bond paid and if it were sufficient to pay the local suppliers. He didn't think the receiver should get that bond.

The situation needs to be carefully monitored, said Councillor Neil Cruise, and any positive action that can be done to help contractors and suppliers should be done urgently.

Local companies should be first in line for payment, said Councillor Sean Carey.

Councillor Michael Loftus urged affected people to act.

He had a letter received by an individual from Grant Thornton that stated they would not accept any request for funding after 14 days from the date of the letter.

“People need to put in their bills as soon as possible.”

Councillor John O'Hara said jobs will be lost in every parish and he urged they give people all the support they can.

Councillor Michael Kilcoyne made the point that the council had previously adopted a motion whereby contractors would be looked after. It had been sent to the government and department 'but nothing happened'.