Fermanagh and Omagh District Council furlough over 200 staff

By Connor Stringer

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has announced that is has furloughed just over 200 under the government’s Job Retention Scheme.

The decision was made following confirmation by the Department for Communities that Councils are eligible to make a claim under the scheme, provided the specific terms are met. 

It's a result of a significant reduction in income from hitherto generating streams such as Arts, Tourism and leisure services.  

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Siobhán Currie said “We are grateful to the staff and trade union representatives who have worked with the Council to implement the process. 
"It was important that furloughed staff would not be affected financially nor would it impact on their terms and conditions of employment. 

"As has been widely reported, there is a very significant financial burden on Councils as a result of Covid-19, particularly in the context of loss of income from closed centres and facilities.

"The income from funding received under the Job Retention Scheme will help to mitigate the loss of income.”

Employees who have been furloughed are not currently required to work due to the closure of certain facilities.

The number also includes employees who care for a family member who is currently shielding from Coronavirus.