Talks under way to save Kingscourt plant

Representatives of management and workers are to sit down this morning (Wednesday), in a bid to resolve the dispute which is threatening the future of the Kingspan plant in Kingscourt. The decision of the company not to go ahead with its plan to shut down production at the plant, as planned, last Friday has provided a window of opportunity for the new negotiations. The talks will aim to find a resolution to the differences between union and management over new work practices which are part of a plan drawn up by Kingspan to secure the Kingscourt site of the company "through these difficult and turbulent economic times". According to SIPTU's Gerry McCormack the dispute is very resolvable if the company makes the right move on issues such as terms and conditions for new entrants; the redundancy entitlements of those employees at the plant who wish to avail of it and the payment of compensation to other workers who wish to remain on at the plant on a reduced income. The people of Kingscourt will be hoping that the new talks can lead to an understanding between management and workers that will allow the plant to remain open. The plant currently employees 130 personnel and before the economic downturn was a major employer in this part of Cavan. Updates at www.anglocelt.ie