On behalf of the Roman Catholic Community of Teesside and the Diocese of Middlesbrough I would like to express my deep concern and sorrow for the loss of 1700 jobs at Corus. Steel making has been part of our Teesside tradition for over a century with the quality of its products known across the world and it is sad that this now seems to be ending. This announcement, coming as it does, so close to Christmas, is a body-blow to all those who now find themselves made redundant and who have to try to find employment elsewhere. We must also remember the families involved since they, too, will be affected. My prayers and thoughts are with you all. The Christmas message of the Gospel is one of hope, and my hope is that 2010 will start to bring new opportunities for Teesside.
