In a quite extraordinary story a leading Fine Gael TD has been labeled as a “disgrace” and a liar after he willingly claimed to have created 150 jobs at a craft beer brewery in his constituency.
The man at the centre of the controversy Anthony Lawlor TD has received a backlash of criticism from his local constituency after the Breweries founder strongly denies that Kildare North politician had any involvement in the creation of further jobs at his brewery. The news of Mr Lawlor’s claims has caused outrage amongst the breweries management and staff as they claim it is impossible for Mr Lawlor to have involvement in the jobs creation due to the fact that the brewery in question had moved to Celbridge, from Kilcock.
According to an angry Niall Phelan, founder of the Rye River Brewing Company Mr Lawlor’s claims are completely false and he had noting to do with any jobs be created at his brewery.
Mr Phelan wrote on his Facebook page: “I have no allegiance to any political party, but do support hard working politicians and I do believe that there are great public representatives in all parties.” “However, I was extremely annoyed when this came through my friend’s door. Firstly, I have spoken to this politician twice in my life. Secondly to claim that he is responsible for creating jobs in our business is a disgrace.”
The brewery owner further explained: “And third, it shows how little he knows our business, as Rye River has moved from Kilcock to Celbridge where we have announced 150 new jobs on top of the 50 we already created.”The understandably annoyed businessman also said that Mr Lawlor, has “lost his vote” after his outrageous claims.
Mr Phelan said: “Our team at Rye River have worked bloody hard and taken huge personal risks with plenty of sleepless nights to create those jobs. Mr Lawlor, you have just lost any chance of any vote from me, because if you’re claiming this, what else can I not believe on your leaflet.”