Crystal plant staff to discuss proposed 485 job cuts

STAFF at Waterford Crystal’s two plants meet today to discuss the company’s proposed 485 job cuts and a major cost-cutting programme for remaining staff.

Workers will gather at The Forum in Waterford City today at 4.30pm and tonight in Lawlor’s Hotel in Dungarvan. On top of the 485 job cuts, the company is also trying to introduce cuts in pension, benefits and bonus entitlements.

Unions at the company have employed an expert team of consultants to advise the 1,300 staff on the impact the cuts will have on their pay, conditions and what financial implications redundancy will have.

The company wants to end the 2% index linking of pension plans for its workers. It also wants to scrap St Patrick’s Day and Christmas bonuses and reform its medical scheme.

Union leaders have said the cuts proposed are unacceptable and they will be looking for a mandate from members on the next step in their bid for a better deal for staff leaving and those who will remain behind. Meanwhile, there has been positive reaction to proposals by Newry-based property developer Gerard O’Hare to create up to 1,000 full-time jobs on the 22-acre site he has bought from the crystal company. It was formerly used by its sports and social club.

City councillor Tom Murphy said he’s delighted that Mr O’Hare proposes talking to the local community about developing the site. “I would be concerned about heavy trucks going through the area at all hours of the day and night, but I welcome the consultation proposed.”