Concern mounts over future of Liebherr plant

Business leaders in Killarney, Co Kerry, are growing increasingly concerned about the future of the Liebherr crane factory, which is beset by an industrial relations impasse.

Earlier this week, a majority of Siptu members at the 670-job plant rejected a Labour Court recommendation for a 2.5% pay rise backdated to May 2012.

The recommendation — accepted by the company on condition the union agreed to changed work practices — was aimed at resolving pay issues dating to 2009.