31/07/2008

Waterford Suffers 100 Job Losses

Waterford's manufacturing sector has suffered a major blow as 100 jobs from a major car parts plant are axed.

Honeywell Ireland Transportation and Power Systems, which manufactures compressor and turbine wheel components for car engine turbo charges, has been experiencing difficulties since 2001 when 600 jobs looked to be in jeopardy.

Consultation with employee representatives is to begin shortly, with the jobs to go by the end of the year.

The company said the losses would be on a voluntary basis initially. In a statement, it said the move was being made so the company could remain competitive.

However, a Fine Gael Senator for the area, Paudie Coffey, said: "This flagship company…is a key employer in Waterford and the loss of so many jobs will affect the morale of all employees in the area.

"I would like to extend my sympathies to all the staff of Honeywell, many of whom now face a very uncertain future. They will still have to cope with the rising cost of living and mortgage repayments, as well as coping with the cost of sending their children back to school in the autumn."

The Senator added: "These job losses are further evidence that the Government has taken its eye off the ball when it comes to the manufacturing sector.

"Waterford is heavily reliant on manufacturing, and has already seen temporary staff laid off at Honeywell, as well as job losses at other companies like Waterford Crystal.

"The latest live register figures and the fact that unemployment nationally is now just below 6% show that the economy is in serious trouble."

(DW)(BMcC)

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