Call Centre Closing

NS: Search begins for Convergys replacement
By John DeMings, Transcontinental Media

Source: The Digby Courier, December 17, 2010

[CORNWALLIS, NS] — Annapolis Digby Economic Development Agency has issued a statement expressing concern and disappointment over the decision by Convergys to cease operations and close its Cornwallis Park facility by March.

Convergys has operated in Cornwallis since 2004 and currently employs about 290 people at its site there.

“Obviously, this is a huge blow to our area, and an extremely difficult situation for Convergys employees and their families,” said Dan Harvey, ADEDA’s acting managing director.

Harvey said that he would meet with Convergys management as soon as possible to discuss the situation and garner further details, and that the agency will work with all levels of government and other related businesses on the resulting transitional plan.

“We’d like to see quality employment being offered in that same facility as soon as possible to minimize the income lapse for any affected employees,” Harvey said.

Annapolis County warden Reg Ritchie said his council received word Wednesday that Convergys will be shutting its doors in March.

News of Convergys’ closure “has saddened all of us,” Ritchie said. “This is a tremendous blow to our region and to the people who depend on this company for their livelihood.”

He said municipal council and staff will work hard to find another tenant for the building, and will be looking for partnership with other government agencies to help in this effort.