Today’s announcement from Bord na Mona that 885 jobs will be created over the next five years is a clear example of disingenuous spin doctor tactics, according to independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice.
Claims that the company’s direct employment will return to pre-2018 levels and that the positions will provide the same security as the traditional jobs offered by the company is not the reality, the Roscommon-Galway TD said.
Speaking in the wake of the announcement, Fitzmaurice said: “The spin doctors have been out in force today in an effort to paint a picture of positivity and prosperity, as Bord na Mona is hailed for its transition from brown to green.
“But when you dig below the surface, the reality is much more grim.
“Todays press junket revealed plans for the creation of a reported 885 jobs over the next five years. 250 of those are supposed to be direct employees of Bord na Mona, 300 jobs will be involved in the construction of renewable energy projects, while 335 will be supposedly created as a result of partnerships with third parties.
“There was plenty of talk about the rehabilitation of bogs and the work it will entail for direct employees. But what happens when all of the available bogs have been rehabilitated? Where will those employees be diverted to?
“While 300 jobs may be created as a result of the construction of wind farms or other renewable energy projects, that will only last for the months that they are being constructed. How many jobs will these windfarms provide once they are operational?
“Reports from today’s event in Cloncreen, Co. Offaly, also highlighted 335 jobs to be created as part of partnerships with other companies involved in the development of modular homes or drones etc.
“The fact of the matter is that Bord na Mona has no hand, act or part in the creation of some of these jobs, as these outside companies are privately investing their own money to create these jobs while leasing premises from Bord na Mona.
“Bord na Mona, Tom Donnellan and Minister Eamon Ryan need to be honest about the real picture, rather than highlighting the headline figures to suit the narrative they are trying to push,” he concluded.
For further information contact Michael Fitzmaurice at 086-1914565