Mayo TD's concern over move to force west of Ireland firm to cease production

A Mayo TD has expressed dismay after an industry in a west of Ireland town received a notification from Department of Agriculture on January 30 telling it to cease production.

Speaking in Dáil Éireann, Deputy Michael Ring said the firm is involved in the supply of goods to animals - "which it does very well."

He stated: "It employs 40 people and it has been told to cease because a company in England and a company in Ireland made a complaint against it, even though it is regulated and licensed.

"It is a bit much that an official from the department would send an email telling a company employing 40 people to cease employment.

"I will write to the minister because I need to get further details. The company in question is getting legal advice.

"Somebody else should have made a call and spoken to that company first before a letter of cessation was sent telling it to cease production, telling staff to go home and telling the 40 people that they have no job.

"I want this matter fully examined."