SIPTU representatives have begun negotiations with management at Diageo Ltd aimed at minimising jobs loses following an announcement today (Thursday, 11th April) that the company intends to cease operations at its brewery in Waterford. SIPTU Organiser, Terry Bryan, said: “This news is horrendous for the workers involved and their families. SIPTU members in the brewery were aware that its operation was under review but are shocked at the announcement that the company intends to close the facility in December 2013.“SIPTU members understand that the company intends to consolidate its operations at its St. James Gate Brewery in Dublin. This is a short sighted strategy, particularly when it is taken into account that a refurbishment of the Waterford plant, costing €40 million, was only completed in 2004.”He added: “The union’s negotiations with the company will be focused on minimising job losses and securing fair and reasonable redundancy packages for any of our members who are made redundant.”SIPTU represents 16 direct employees at the Waterford Brewery and a further six support staff.
SIPTU meets management to discuss threat to Waterford Brewery jobs
