24 hours to save B3 cables, union warns

Union chiefs warned today there was only 24 hours to save a cabling business employing 104 people in the midlands.

Siptu bosses held talks with a receiver at B3 Solutions in Longford amid fears the business was on the verge of closing its doors and being wound up.

Sean Nolan, Siptu branch organiser, said workers were awaiting a deadline of noon tomorrow to secure the future of the plant.

“But it is not too late to find purchasers to take over B3 Solutions as a going concern,” Mr Nolan said.

“There is a very productive workforce which has co-operated with management over the past year by facilitating short-time working arrangements.

“Our members are very angry at the manner in which their jobs have suddenly been placed under threat and it is up to all concerned, including the receiver, public representatives, the IDA and the Government to save this plant before it is too late.”

Siptu officials met accountants from Deloitte and Touche at the factory. It is understood the receivers are actively seeking a buyer for the business as a going concern.

B3 Solutions, which manufactures copper based cable for telecoms giant Eircom and other customers, has been in business at Aghafad, near Longford town, for about 30 years. It was put into receivership last week.