Councillors in the Kenmare MD have expressed their support to safeguard the future of Skelligs Chocolate in the Iveragh Gaeltacht.
Last month it was announced that an application was made to the High Court to wind up the company.
The Kenmare MD councillors expressed their support for the business, which they say is of enormous importance to the area.
Business man Paddy McKillen Junior owns separate companies, one of which is the landlord of the building out of which Skelligs Chocolate operates.
The proceedings remain before the courts.
Independent councillor Johnny Healy-Rae and Fianna Fáil councillor Norma Moriarty both tabled motions calling for action to be taken to help ensure Skelligs Chocolate remains open; these were unanimously supported by all MD councillors.
Cllr Healy-Rae told the meeting that the 25 jobs there is equivalent of 250 jobs in a city; he said Skelligs Chocolate was of huge significance to South Kerry.
Meanwhile, Cllr Norma Moriarty said Skelligs Chocolate is a beacon of what is possible in rural Gaeltacht areas, adding it’s a solid, good business that’s enormously important to the area and the families employed by the business.
She said the jobs there need to be protected.
Skelligs Chocolate is operating as normal.
Kerry County Council stated that the company is a client of Údaras na Gaeltachta, and the council has engaged with both the company and Údaras to ensure the company is aware of all available supports.
