Workers at the Old Darnley Lodge, who are on day five of a sit-in at the hotel in Athboy, Co. Meath, have launched a publicity campaign to highlight their call for a meeting with Mitrespor, the managers of the business, who have not been contactable since the premises closed on Wednesday, 16th January. The workers began distributing an information leaflet today (21st January) in Athboy outlining their situation. The leaflet states: “On the 7th March 2011 Seamus McEnaney was introduced to the staff as the person taking over the hotel, with Peter McKeown being the General Manager promising us a bright new future. “At the close of business on Wednesday 16th January Mr Peter McKeown Director of Mitrespor Ltd/General Manager informed one member of staff that the Hotel would close permanently in one hour. Since that time neither Peter McKeown nor Seamus McEnaney have been in contact nor have we been able to contact either party. To date the staff has not received any information from the management of the hotel regarding their statutory entitlements, including redundancy pay, holiday pay and hours owed.The leaflet concludes: “We would like to take this opportunity to record our appreciation for all the support we have received from the community and general public.”SIPTU Organiser, Martin Mannion, said: “The manner in which these workers have been treated is completely unacceptable. The union will be taking every action to support the workers in obtaining all monies due to them and, if possible, resuming the operation of a business which plays an essential role in the local community.”The hotel employs around 15 full-time and 30 part-time and casual staff, the majority of whom are SIPTU members.
SIPTU supports Old Darnley Lodge workers' demand for meeting with management
