'Sad End' For Dublin Car Firm

Liquidator are moving in on one of the country's largest car dealerships, which is going into liquidation with the loss of almost 100 jobs.

EP Mooney, which was founded in Dublin 37 years ago, has amassed debts of more than €22m after several years of difficulty.

The firm operates five dealerships in Dublin employing 95 people.

Earlier this year, Chief Executive Paraic Mooney made a public appeal to Taoiseach Brian Cowen to bring in a car scrappage scheme and tax changes.

At the time, the company had stated on its website that it saw recession as a "challenge".

"A challenge to deliver the finest cars at the best prices with a customer care service that is second to none.

"EP Mooney has been serving the motoring public for over 35 years and we’ve seen the highs and lows of two recessions and we only get stronger."

However, Mr Mooney said he had sought bank support to continue in business but was unable to secure funding because of the uncertain outlook in the motor trade. "As a result, the directors had no option but to terminate the business, closing five branches with the loss of 95 jobs.

"We would like to thank all our employees, customers, suppliers and partners for their loyalty over the years. We greatly regret that 36 years of hard work has come to such a sad end," he added.

(DW/BMcC)