Threat to Laois jobs in Portarlington described as 'devestating'

Laois jobs in Portarlington are under threat with news that a courier company in the town has been placed in receivership.

The development raises doubts over about 300 direct jobs at delivery and logistics company Nuvion Group which owns Fastway Couriers.

Founded in Ireland in 2002, Fastway is one of the largest courier businesses in Ireland.

Headquartered in Dublin, it operates a customer care centre in Portarlington.

Portarlington-based Laois Cllr Aidan Mullins commented.

"Devastating news this evening for Portarlington as Fastway Couriers is going into receivership. A massive loss of jobs as I'm told by an employee that about 300 people in total work for the Company.

"A meeting has been arranged by the Company with the workers for tomorrow at 12 noon when their position will become clearer but the outlook seems bleak," he said.

RTE reports a spokesperson as saying that the business has faced sustained inflation, rising operating costs and ongoing price pressures across the parcels market, which have made it no longer viable in its current form.

"Delays and disruption are envisaged and the receivers will work with retailers to minimise such delays," the spokesperson said.

"We want to sincerely thank our employees, franchisees and customers for their continued understanding and support during this difficult time," the company added.

Mark Degnan and Brendan O'Reilly of Interpath Advisory have been appointed as receivers.