asked the Minister for Industry and Energy the measures he proposes to take to prevent further redundancies in the NET plants at Marina Point and Arklow.
Written Answers. - NET Redundancies.
430.
Because of their critical financial position and heavy losses, NET have been engaged over the past 18 months in a series of rationalisation measures designed to improve their financial performance. Part of the rationalisation programme involves a detailed review — with the help of external consultants — of organisation structures and manning levels at the company's Arklow and Marino Point plants.
Certain redundancies have already been put in train at the Arklow plant following consideration of a detailed consultancy report and consultations with the trade unions. The consultants have recently separately reported in relation to the Marino Point plant. The consultants' report has now been considered by the NET board and management have invited the trade unions to discuss the situation with them. In addition, management have invited applications for voluntary redundancies from the work force.
While redundancies at NET are most regrettable, I am advised that the company regard them as vital to help restore NET's viability and to bring plant manning levels more into line with NET's international competitors.