Region has taken a hammering and its redundant workers must be given a fair deal
The news that 40 workers are to go has sent a shudder through the area.
The loss of the fabrics company is another blow to Youghal, and is the latest in a series of factory closure, in recent years, bringing the total figure of job losses to around 1,200.
This is devastating news for the east Cork region, coupled with the imminent closure of a commercial concern in the Midleton area.
The textile industry here has been undermined over many years by cheap imports.
The extent of the decline is clearly to be seen in the fact that, 20 years ago, Irish firms controlled 80% of the domestic market.
That situation is now reversed.
Since the textile sector is employment intensive, it has been burdened with the PRSI system because it employed so many people. No thought was given to its ability to pay. We must also examine the position of those workers made redundant in their thirties and forties. They have family commitments, including mortgages.
They must be facilitated financially and otherwise to get them back into the workplace.
We have open arms for the non-national who wants to set up business here, but little or nothing for the native.
I regret the closure of Youghal Textiles.
I hope that statutory redundancy payments, pension rights and termination of employment will be applied correctly and that no worker will be victimised.
I appeal to the IDA to look to Youghal and Midleton when promoting industrial development in both areas.
The infrastructure, services, sites and workers are readily available.
Cllr Noel Collins
‘St Jude’s’
Midleton
Co Cork
