SIPTU Condemn Brinks Ireland Job Cuts

News that Brinks Ireland is to cease its cash in transit operations with the lose of 200 jobs has been condemned by SIPTU.

Making the announcement on Monday, Brinks Ireland said it would end the operations by the end of July.

SIPTU Organiser, Brendan Carr, said: "The workers are extremely disappointed by this announcement. Only last month, union representatives finalised an agreement with management on a major restructuring deal which we were ensured would safeguard the company's future in Ireland.

"Unfortunately, despite the sacrifices of its workforce and there willingness to adapt to the company's demands it has still decided to end its cash in transit operations. This will result in 200 jobs losses at the company's bases in Dublin, Cork and Galway."

SIPTU representatives will now work towards securing employment for affected workers in this "specialised industry".

"These workers are licenced to work in the cash in transit industry and where possible it is hoped that they can transfer to a new employer along with the contracts that are currently being serviced by Brinks Ireland," Mr Carr added.

"We welcome the intervention of Minister for State, Ged Nash, who has asked the company to reconsider its decision. He has also given a commitment to work with the union and the workers to try and secure as many of their positions as possible within the industry.

"These jobs have been endangered, in part, due to the operation of low cost employers in the security industry. These companies do not adhere to the established terms and conditions of employment in the cash in transit sector. These operators are expanding by undermining workers' conditions in what is an extremely difficult industry with a resulting decline in standards."

(MH/LM)