An Lanntair staff face redundancy as virus impact takes its toll

Up to 21 staff are facing redundancy at An Lanntair arts centre in Stornoway following the news that the centre is dealing with major challenges as a result of the coronavirus shutdown.

The news of the possible job cuts was communicated to the membership via a letter earlier this week.

A statement issued to the Gazette by An Lanntair this afternoon (Thursday, March 26th) explained: “The Coronavirus / COVID-19 shut down followed on from what was already a very difficult trading year for the Café Bar business.

Work had been underway to review and revitalise the Café Bar business, however the sudden impact of the recent COVID-19 crisis shut-down meant that this work was no longer viable.

“All 21 part time and full time staff who work for this company, that is those who work in the Café Bar and Kitchen, have been informed that the company has ceased trading and that they are now at risk of redundancy.

“This is a very difficult time for all those affected and it is with deep regret that it has reached this point.

“The organisation is taking professional advice about all the options now available.”

“An Lanntair Trading Ltd is a separate standalone subsidiary company to An Lanntair Ltd, the charity that runs the arts centre and its programme.

“An Lanntair continues to be committed to supporting its staff, audiences, customers, artists and all participants, and will be working around the clock over the coming weeks and months to ensure the arts centre charity can continue its crucial work from the centre and across the community.”

There was no further information available in regards to re-employing staff once the pandemic was over, or any information given about investigating Scottish Government support to help retain jobs at the centre.