The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Energy, Martin Ferris TD has claimed that the awarding of a Bord Gáis maintenance and safety contract to British firm Balfour Beatty is already costing jobs among former contractors and employees.

Deputy Ferris was responding to information he received that Balfour Beatty are to make 72 people redundant. The workers concerned were working for two companies which formerly had the contract.

Deputy Ferris said: "According to information which I have been given, Balfour Beatty getting the contract will lead to the immediate laying off of 72 people. I also believe that the workers concerned intend to picket Bord Gáis in protest at what they claim is the awarding of the contract to Balfour Beatty.

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"I have already highlighted the poor safety record of this company and the Minister said he was looking into the issuing of the contract in the light of that. Given that the contract is still under probation due to legal challenges I would hope that he will expedite that investigation.

"He should also take into account the job losses and the fact that that surely conflicts with the ‘economic viability’ criteria attached to the tender process, given that this company will lose jobs here with a consequent knock on effect in terms of social welfare and spending."

(CD/GK)