National Pen announce lay-offs as the economic impact of Coronavirus hits
NATIONAL Pen Dundalk announced they are set to implement contingency plans including temporary layoffs of 94 staff as a ‘protective measure’ in response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
The US company said it made the decision ‘in order to protect the financial health of the business and ensure it’s long term future in Europe.’
‘We will be rolling out a set of contingency plans to ensure the business is protected against the disruption to markets caused by the current global outbreak of coronavirus,’ said President and CEO Peter Kelly.’
He said the company’s Dundalk based Contact Centre has seen an ‘inevitable downturn across European markets as governments across the continent continue to introduce stringent measures to combat the spread of the disease including the cancellation of events, the closure of schools and other public buildings, restriction of travel and in a growing number of cases, regional lockdowns.’
‘As part of contingency plans designed to secure the company’s long-term future, National Pen will be implementing shortterm temporary layoffs. These layoffs are regrettable and will impact 94 Contact Centre employees.
‘It is our duty and responsibility to be realistic in our assessment of the inevitable impacts of the Coronavirus Crisis and take calm, pragmatic and decisive actions to ensure our organization has the strength and longevity to weather the current period of disruption.
He added: ‘Although regrettable, short-term temporary layoffs are a necessary protective measure to shield the business and minimize long-term risks, and it is important to remember that these layoffs are temporary. Although difficult times lie ahead, National Pen is prepared and in control and we continue to monitor and respond to the current crisis with a focus on the long-term. These are stressful and disruptive times, but these times will pass and National Pen will persevere, endure and emerge strongly.’