asked the Minister for Finance if any redundancies were expected at the Erin Foods Limited plant at Carlow; if so, what action was being taken to avert the laying-off of workers; if machinery from this plant was being transferred elsewhere; if celery processing was to continue there and, if not, if he would cause a public inquiry into the economic working of the plant which was the only one in Leinster; and if he would make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Erin Foods Plant.
7.
Proposals aimed at improving the financial performance of the food processing project of Erin Foods Limited are at present being examined in my Department and a full statement will be issued at an early date. The proposals, if implemented, will involve a short-term reduction in employment at some factory centres but I am not in a position to give any details on redundancies before final decisions are taken. Every effort will be made, however, to ensure that redundancies are kept to a minimum.
The proposals at present before my Department do not envisage any major transfer of machinery out of the Carlow plant. The production of celery would, however, be rationalised and would be concentrated at Skibbereen and Glencolumbcille. This would entail the discontinuance of celery production at Carlow but would not result in the movement of existing equipment other than some small pieces from the plant. In the circumstances I do not consider that a public inquiry into the working of the Carlow plant is called for.
May I ask the Minister if, within the proposals currently before his Department, the redundancies have been quantified in relation to areas or in total form?
Probably in total form.
Is the Minister aware that at the annual general meeting of this company a warning was given that the redundancies would be substantial in number? Could the Minister arrange to give us as soon as possible the numbers involved in the lay-off? Could he assure the House that consultation with the unions will take place?
I have already said that these proposals are being examined and that I am not in a position to give any details on the redundancies before final decisions are taken.