Magners Jobs Losses Felt In NI

The impact of job losses in the drinks industry in the Irish Republic has spilled over into the agricultural industry in Northern Ireland.

NI Minister Michelle Gildernew yesterday expressed regret and disappointment at Irish cider manufacturer Magners' announcement of 120 job losses across Ireland.

"It is a very worrying that the economic downturn is spreading to our agri-food industry, with the Irish drinks sector the latest to be affected.

"During a visit to Magners' production plant in Clonmel last September I was very impressed with the skill and expertise of their workforce and the high level of investment they have made in their cider production facilities.

"The loss of 120 jobs is very regrettable, including seven in the north and I sympathise with the employees who are affected.

"Magners have become an important market for fruit growers in the north and I hope the business can recover from these difficult times," she said, noting the irony that the news comes at a time when local growers are celebrating the bi-centennial of the Bramley apple.

"We will continue to assist the growers in north through technology transfer, business support, training and research and development.

"In addition we can provide financial help from the Rural Development Programme to develop processing and marketing initiatives," she concluded.

Two years ago Bulmers, which is sold under the Magners brand in Northern Ireland, employed more than 600 workers.

Following a continuing downturn in sales of cider, the company's plant in Co Tipperary will now lose 103 posts, while 11 jobs will be cut in Dublin.

Aidan Murphy of parent company C&C, said the cuts, made through voluntary redundancies, was needed to "safeguard the viability of the company".

"This action is necessary in order to protect future jobs and safeguard the viability of the company," he said.

See: Bulmers Staff Fear The Worst On Jobs

(BMcC/JM)