SIPTU representatives are seeking an urgent meeting with senior management at North Cork Creameries, following an announcement last week that the company is proposing to enter a redundancy process which could result in significant job losses at its plant in Kanturk, County Cork.
SIPTU Organiser, Sharon Ryan, said: “Our immediate concerns are with our members and their families who are only beginning to come to terms with the possible loss of their livelihoods. We have met with company representatives yesterday (Monday, 9th March), where we requested a meeting with senior management to discuss the details of what is being proposed.
“We intend to engage with the company to explore alternatives to the proposed job losses and attempt to protect as many of our members’ roles as possible. The company is a major employer in Kanturk and the North Cork area, employing more than 100 workers.
She added: “We are aware there have been difficulties at the plant for some time related to ongoing issues with the effluent plant and the Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to revoke its operating licence. The company has informed us that it doesn’t intend to begin the 30-day statutory redundancy consultation process at this time.
“Union representatives will also engage with all stakeholders to seek to limit the impact any job losses will have on the local economy and community.”