Troubled crystal firm lays off 1,600 workers for a week

WATERFORD CRYSTAL yesterday laid off 1,600 workers for a week due to the weakening of global markets for the world-famous glassware.

While the company has no immediate plans for further cutbacks, a spokesman warned that this would depend on market demand.

"The short-time working is a response to the supply and demand balance. We won't be producing stuff we don't have orders for," he added.