Midlands hit by job cuts blow

Some 129 people are to lose their jobs in the midlands, following announcements today by Banagher Concrete, An Post and Morrison Utility Services.

Fifty jobs are going at Banagher Concrete, the largest employer in south and west Co Offaly

A further 60 jobs are being lost at the An Post mail distribution centre in Portlaoise, following the loss of a distribution contract.

And also in Portlaoise, 16 jobs are being lost at telecommunications provider Morrison Utility Services, following the loss of a contract with Eircom.