Taoiseach Congratulates Mullingar Company on It's "Can-Do Attitude"

Speaking at the Official Opening of Wines Direct New Headquarters, in Mullingar, the Taoiseach Mr Brian Cowen T.D. congratulated the company on its remarkable resilience, having turned disaster into triumph - all in the space of 12 months.

The Taoiseach remarked that Paddy Keogh, Managing Director of Wines Direct: "was an outstanding example of the can-do, entrepreneurial spirit that is such a strength in our small and medium businesses".

The Taoiseach also stated that, "we owe a great deal to the small and medium business sector. Enterprises such as Wines Direct make a huge contribution to our economic growth, employment and ultimately our prosperity".

"Small and Medium-sided Enterprises are crucial to our objective of creating and maintaining well-paid jobs for our people. Over 800,000 people work in the small business sector and its well-being is a key ingredient in the success of our national economy. Nevertheless, the current economic circumstances are putting a significant strain on this sector. However, the Government is committed to doing its best to contribute to a favourable business environment for SMEs as the growth in their numbers will be a key factor in returning Ireland to positive and sustainable economic growth when international circumstances improve."

Editors Note:

Wines Direct is an independent Irish wine company which imports wine from around the world. The company supplies nationwide to the top restaurants and hotels and have a thriving internet business and retail shop in Mullingar.

Wines Direct has a full-time staff of 25.

On the 15th October 2007 their business was burnt to the ground and since then the company have continued to grow its business and expand its workforce from temporary accommodation in Mullingar.

Since the fire Wines Direct have invested €3.3million in a new site and designed a purpose built facility in the Lough Sheever Corporate Park. Mullingar.