Bulmers to cut 121 jobs from Irish workforce

Drinks firm Bulmers today axed more than 120 jobs across its operations.

Clonmel in South Tipperary was worst hit by the cuts, with 103 positions lost at its cider making plant.

C&C, which owns Bulmers Ltd, said a further 11 posts will go in Dublin and seven in Belfast.

It revealed remaining staff will also be hit by an annual pay freeze and changes to work practices.

C&C's Aidan Murphy said the action is necessary to protect future jobs and safeguard the viability of the company.

"Today is a very difficult day for the company as we implement a number of redundancies, right across the business," said Mr Murphy.

"We are operating under extraordinarily tough economic conditions and it is essential that we reduce our cost base and improve our competitiveness."

"We have no choice but to respond to the current climate, realign the company in line with market conditions and take tough decisions, which will not be easy on anyone."

Founded in Clonmel in 1935 by local man, William Magner, Bulmers employs 433 people in the town, 46 in Dublin, and 70 in the North. Its parent C&C Group has 673 employees.

Local Fine Gael TD Tom Hayes said the job losses marked another black day for the county.

"This is just the latest in a long list of blows which have confirmed South Tipperary as one of the worst unemployment black spots in the country," said Mr Hayes.

"It is a particularly bleak day for the 120 staff who are losing their jobs. These workers and their families still have mortgages to pay, children to get through school and the tough task of finding another job.

"Unemployment has already shot up by 86% in South Tipperary over the last 12 months, before this latest announcement is factored in."

Mr Hayes said Bulmers was a vital employer in an area which has been starved of international investment.

"The company already let 147 people go last November, and plans announced last year to recruit another 200 jobs came to nothing," he continued.

"These latest job losses will affect other companies which depend on Bulmers for business."

Bulmers said its focus was on those affected by the announcement, and confirmed management would work with employees and representatives to minimise the impact of the programme.

Mr Murphy continued: "It is important for me to say that in no way is this announcement a reflection on the dedication and commitment of the Bulmers' workforce at Clonmel, which has been central to the success of the company in recent years.

"Bulmers is committed to assisting all those affected by this announcement and we will offer every assistance possible, by way of outplacement and financial advice.

"Notwithstanding today's announcement, the management team and the workforce have a responsibility to the company and it is our intention to deliver on the future viability and long-term success of our operation in Clonmel."