SIPTU representatives have expressed deep shock and anger following redundancy announcements at the Kostal plant in Abbeyfeale, County Limerick, Newbridge Silverware, and Glen Dimplex in Newry. The Union has moved immediately to support affected workers, many of whom have dedicated decades of service to these historic employers.
In County Limerick, 140 jobs are under immediate threat at the Kostal plant. Management cited the relocation of on-board charger production overseas as the primary driver. SIPTU Organiser Eva Mitchell highlighted the distress felt by the workforce:
“The loss of 140 skilled, high-value jobs will be widely felt,” Mitchell stated. “Kostal’s Irish workforce has given decades of dedicated service… their commitment would seem to count for little in the face of global trade factors.”
Meanwhile, in County Kildare, management at Newbridge Silverware plans to make up to 11 workers redundant. SIPTU Organiser Richie Elliott noted that some affected members have served for over 30 years, stating: “Retaining this quality employment into the future is our top priority.”
A further crisis has emerged at the Glen Dimplex plant in Newry, where 51 redundancies, representing nearly 50% of the workforce, have been proposed. This comes despite previous assurances of a £25 million investment in the site. SIPTU Organiser Niall McNally slammed the move to outsource skilled work to Lithuania:
“The current proposal stands in stark contrast to past commitments and has left workers feeling betrayed,” McNally said. “At a time when the transition to renewables should be creating secure employment, this decision appears designed simply to pad out profit margins.”
Across all three sites, SIPTU is demanding meaningful engagement and a full exploration of alternatives to compulsory redundancies. The Union remains committed to protecting the long-term industrial sustainability of these regions and securing the best possible outcomes for our members.