Fianna Fáil TD for Cork South Central Micheál Martin has expressed his disappointment at the announcement that gaming firm, Big Fish, is to close in Cork with the loss of at least 90 jobs.
Deputy Martin commented: “This is a massive blow to the 100 or so workers that will lose their jobs in Cork as contractors may also be made redundant. I am dismayed and disappointed at this announcement and my thoughts are with the workers and their families.
“There is now an obligation on Minister for Enterprise and Trade Richard Bruton to seek assurances from the company that the employees will be properly compensated and work with the state agencies like Enterprise Ireland to entice alternative employers into Mahon.
“The Minister must also outline any discussions that took place between his department, the IDA and Big Fish prior to the announcement. We need to see openness and transparency from Minister Bruton about any prior knowledge he had of the job losses. It is also extremely disappointing that the company failed to save any aspect of their operations here.
“The gaming industry is one that has been thriving in Ireland and we must look at the causes of the company closure. If there are warning signs, these need to be highlighted so similar companies are not in danger of shutting. The European markets that Big Fish was targeting will now be serviced from Seattle which is also a cause for concern.”