Jackson’s receivership highlights need for greater SME supports – McConalogue

Published on: 09 January 2015


Fianna Fáil TD for Donegal Charlie McConalogue has expressed his shock following the announcement that Jackson’s Hotel in Ballybofey has been placed in receivership.  The hotel has been a major employer in the town since the mid-1940s.

Deputy McConalogue commented, “I was deeply saddened to learn that a receiver has been appointed to Jackson’s Hotel this week.  The announcement has come as a major shock to the local community and I want to pay tribute to Barry and Margaret Jackson and their staff, who have been working tirelessly to keep the business viable in the aftermath of the economic downturn.

“The appointment of a receiver to Jackson’s is an extremely worrying development, in light of the closure of the Seaview Hotel in Bunbeg earlier this week.  The hotel sector, particularly in Donegal, is paying the price for Government inaction in the SME area.  No attempts have been made to reduce overheads for small and medium businesses, which are forced to fork out several thousand euros a year for water and other rates.  An ever increasing burden of regulation and red tape is also adding to the day to day pressures for those trying to run small and medium size businesses.

“Ministers have failed to recognise that although major cities like Dublin may be feeling the effects of a recovery that sentiment has not yet reached all parts of the country, and Donegal is still attempting to get back on an even keel.  SMEs are the backbone of many towns in the county and more needs to be done to nurture and support these businesses.  Despite promises to do so, this Government is failing companies and communities, with Jackson’s in Ballybofey the latest victim of empty policies”.

Cllr. Patrick McGowan added, “The Jackson family have been an integral part of Ballybofey life for almost 7 decades, not only bringing business to the town, but also employing hundreds of people over the years.  The news is a devastating blow to workers and their families but the fact that it will continue as a going concern gives hope that a rescue plan could be put in place”.

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