Co-op transfer decision opposed
ICSA general secretary Eddie Punch said yesterday he was appalled by the news.
“It is particularly frustrating that jobs are to be taken away from a rural area at a time when government policy favours decentralisation towards provincial towns.
“These jobs are vital for balanced regional development and for the rural communities and economy of north Cork.”
Mr Punch said it should be remembered that Dairygold was started on the co-operative principle, and built on the start-up money supplied by farm families and the efforts of rural communities.
“This decision means that Dairygold is turning its back on these people at a time when rural employment is more vital than ever before.
“More and more farm families are becoming dependent on job opportunities in their area, as farm income has declined,” he said. Mr Punch said Dairygold should not forget its rural roots.
