DEL pledges support to Pattons

Dr Farry said: “Job losses such as those announced today by Pattons are extremely regrettable, not only for those who have been told their jobs are to go, but also for families, communities and the economy as a whole.

“I would like to assure those affected by today’s announcement that my Department will be making every effort, along with the Department for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, and the Social Security Agency (SSA) to assist those affected.

“Through our Redundancy Advice Service we work in partnership with the SSA, Further Education Colleges, HMRC and other agencies to provide advice on alternative job opportunities and access to training courses and a range of other issues such as benefits and taxation.”

He added: “Today my officials are delivering our Redundancy Advice Service on-site to provide employees with information and professional advice about the options and support available to them including employment, self–employment, training and education opportunities and careers advice.”

The Department has also made arrangements for DEL and SSA to provide assistance through the Jobs and Benefits Office network and the locally based Employer Contact Team.

As well as offering face to face advice to employees today, the Social Security Agency’s benefit entitlement helpline, 0800 232 1271, is also available to anyone seeking help or advice on what benefits, or related services, they might be entitled to.

Stressing that the Redundancy Advice Service is free of charge for employers and employees, Dr Farry said: “If necessary my Department will extend the Redundancy Advice Service to not only Pattons, but any other businesses in this supply chain that may unfortunately be affected by any loss of business or redundancies as a consequence of this announcement today.”

Employees and employers may also contact the Department for Employment and Learning directly to take up the support available by contacting their local Jobs and Benefits Office or JobCentre – details available on http://www.nidirect.gov.uk