US firm to lay off 200 Co Cork workers

A US electronics firm is to lay off 200 workers after deciding to close its plant in Youghal, Co Cork.

Artesyn Technologies told its staff this morning that they will be let go on a phased basis over the coming nine months.

The company, which has been operating in Youghal for more than 20 years, said it hopes to begin negotiations with union representatives in the coming weeks to close down the plant in an orderly fashion by next September.