Baxter And Bulmers Reveal Job Losses

There will be some 250 job losses after Baxter Healthcare in Mayo and Bulmers in Tipperary announced "restructuring plans".

American company Baxter Healthcare said it would achieve its 150 job cuts through voluntary redundancy.

Baxter has been in operation in Castlebar since 1972 and currently employs 1,000 people in the town. The company will also terminate 50 temporary contracts over the same period.

Attributing the decision to the downturn in the global economy, the company claimed European healthcare cost-saving measures and the ongoing need to improve cost competitiveness as the reason for the move.

Fine Gael Leader Enda Kenny has expressed regret over the redundancies saying it was "extremely disappointing" that the redundancies were announced.

"I have contacted the Industrial Development Authority and the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, Batt O'Keeffe, to ensure that every effort will be made to support the employees who will be facing redundancy," Mr Kenny said.

He added: "I will also be ensuring that every effort is made to protect the remaining 800 jobs at the employer as Baxter has been an exemplary employer in County Mayo."

Mr Kenny also said he would like to see the redundancy packages being as generous as possible to assist those that will be leaving the employer as a result of this redundancy announcement.

"This is a devastating blow to the concerned employees in advance of the Christmas period and will undoubtedly be very hard on them personally."

Meanwhile, cider manufacturer Bulmers has announced 50 jobs will go at its Clonmel plant by the end of the year as a part of its cost-cutting measures and reorganisation programme.

The company informed staff that it would require up to 50 redundancies at the Tipperary manufacturing facility. Management will start consultations with employees and trade union representatives immediately.

(DW)