“I am delighted at this announcement by SLM Connect and Údarás na Gaeltachta,” the minister told Donegal Daily.
“This is most significant in terms of the number of jobs it will create in North West Donegal. It is great news for Gaoth Dobhair and the surrounding locality and will give a much needed boost to the area.”
SLM Connect, the Manchester based digital marketing company, confirmed that it is to expand its operations and establish a new base on the Gaoth Dobhair Business Park, in Na Doirí Beaga.
The expansion plan is supported by Údarás na Gaeltachta and will lead to the creation of 125 jobs.
Said McHugh: “I have been in discussions with James Moran, Manager, and board members of SLM Connect since last year, and over recent months, where I attended meetings in both Manchester and Donegal, along with officials from Údarás na Gaeltachta, about SLM Connect establishing a branch of the company in the Gaoth Dobhair Business Park.
“I am delighted they will begin operation here in Donegal in the coming weeks and months, where they plan to employ up to 125 people with skills and experience in customer care and contact services, as well as supervisory and management positions being available.
“SLM Éire Teo plans to begin operating from its new base this summer and will soon begin recruiting. The company plans to employ 25 people initially and hopes to increase its employment numbers substantially in the following months.
“I wish to commend SLM Connect and Údarás na Gaeltachta on their hard work and dedication to ensuring this project would be established here in Donegal. The move will be a major boost for the Gaeltacht area of Gaoth Dobhair and surrounding areas which have suffered unemployment and emigration in recent years and today’s news is a positive story for our County.”