108 jobs to go at Limerick elastic goods plant

One hundred and eight jobs are to go at an elastic goods manufacturers in Limerick, it was announced this afternoon.

A company which makes nappy elastic is to close its manufacturing plant in Limerick with the loss of more than 100 jobs.

Fulflex International in the Galvone Industrial Estate announced today that 108 employees will be let go next month from its current workforce of 124.

Fulflex's parent firm, the Moore Company, cited rising labour costs and lower global prices in the elastic market as the reason for the job losses.

The company added that intense global competition would lead to substantial losses in 2006 and beyond.

It is understood the company will now move its manufacturing facility abroad to take advantage of lower labour costs.

The performance of a strong euro against the US dollar was also given as a reason for Fulfex's decision to close its manufacturing operation in Limerick.

Fulflex International, which is one of the world's biggest manufacturers of nappy elastic, was established in Limerick in 1969.

The company is expected to begin immediate discussions with employees and unions on severance package details.

Fulflex said it would continue to supply customers from other lower cost locations and will maintain a small presence in Limerick with 16 employees.