Steel firm lays off 55 in Portarlington

A steel firm in Co. Laois is laying off up to 55 workers.

Portarlington-based Siac Butlers Steel is letting go almost half of its 123-strong workforce.

It's understood the job losses are because of the downturn in the construction industry.

Portarlington based Independent Councillor Paul Mitchell has told Midlands 103 that it's a major blow for the town and surrounding areas: