“It is sad to see a company of the calibre of Tom Hogan Motor Group being forced into liquidation as a result of the extraordinarily difficult economic climate in which the country finds itself. The closure of the Tom Hogan car dealership and the threat to its 190 employees is a tragic example of the crisis facing the Irish car industry,” said Fine Gael Clare TD Joe Carey.
“I wish to extend my sympathies to the workers and their families in Tom Hogan Motors in Ennis, Shannon, Galway and Clonmel whose jobs are now threatened. This is a very difficult and uncertain time for all involved. I hope they will be able secure alternative opportunities promptly if necessary. Tom Hogan Motors is one of the largest dealerships in the country to face closure. It is a very worrying indication of the problems facing the Irish motor industry at present. It is estimated that the car sales market has fallen by as much as 65% in Ireland this year, and there is a threat of 5,000 jobs going in the industry by the end of 2009.”
“The UK recently introduced a car scrappage scheme, which has had some success in helping to maintain jobs and lessen the impact of the global recession. The Department of Finance should now consider all options to determine whether they protect jobs in the industry and benefit the overall economy.”
Toyota Ireland statement re: TOM HOGAN MOTOR GROUP
David Shannon, Managing Director, Toyota Ireland commented:‘We have been in contact with the management of Tom Hogan Motor Group and they, like us, want to ensure that the impact on customers will be minimal. We want to assure customers that all Toyota and Lexus vehicles purchased through the Group continue to carry full manufacturer’s warranty and that any service needs customers may have can be dealt with through the Toyota and Lexus Dealer network. Customers can also contact Toyota Ireland Customer Relations on 01 4190200.