20th October 2021
Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Damien English T.D, visited the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) in Monaghan today as part of a series of nationwide engagements by the Minister, who is keen to meet the Local Enterprise Office teams and some of their client companies.
Minster English was joined by Minister Heather Humphreys T.D., and began his visit at the M:Tek Building where he met with Cllr Aidan Campbell, Cathaoirleach of Monaghan County Council; Deputy Chief Executive, Paul Clifford; Head of Enterprise at Monaghan LEO, John McEntegart as well as members of the LEO Team and Evaluation Committee. The Minister was given a presentation on the LEO highlights for Monaghan in 2021, which was followed by a discussion on current matters.
Minister English said:
“The Local Enterprise Office in Monaghan have worked hard with businesses all over the county, especially over the past 18 months. They have continued to offer important services such as mentoring, training, upskilling and financial supports and I want to acknowledge the efforts of John McEntegart and his LEO team. This support has been vital in helping to protect local businesses and maintain jobs while also creating new jobs. Their support has also enabled companies to make the transition to online trading during the pandemic.”
After the meeting, Minister English paid a visit to Worktop Precision Ltd., where he met with owners Des and Michelle McKenna. The company specialise in the manufacture and installation of bespoke natural stone and quartz worktop surfaces. They supply both residential and commercial clients in Ireland and the UK.
The Minister then called to George Quinn Ltd., where he met with Martin McGinn and was given a tour of the facility. The company manufactures stair parts for the joinery, builders’ providers and DIY markets. The majority of the products are for the home market with approx 15% destined for the UK. In 2012, the company introduced a staircase renovation system which is used to modernise existing staircases without the need to dismantle them.
Following the visits, Minister English said,
“I admire the innovation and adaptability of businesses as they confront the challenges faced by the pandemic and Brexit. Covid has underlined the importance of our local communities and campaigns such as ‘Looking for Local’ can have a hugely positive impact for local businesses. As my Department continues to develop our Regional Enterprise Plans what has
never been clearer is the hugely important role that collaboration and innovation play in driving our local economies. I am delighted to experience this at first hand today in Monaghan and to meet those involved in businesses and supporting businesses.”
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