Mobile phone maker Motorola is considering ending all engineering activities at its Cork facility, a move which could result in the loss of most of the 350 jobs at the plant. The Cork plant is mainly involved in software development.
The company told workers the news today, saying that if the plan were confirmed, it would result in 'the vast majority of employees at the site being at risk of redundancy'. The company said this would also make the site unsustainable as a Motorola facility. It said it would not be making any further comment until it had consulted workers in Cork.
Earlier this month Motorola said it planned to cut 3,500 jobs in the first six months of this year to reduce costs. The world's second-biggest maker of mobile phones had outlined the plan to cut 5% of its 70,000-strong work force after reporting that fourth-quarter profit fell by 50%, hurt by a sharp drop in phone prices amid stiff competition.
Motorola was in discussions with staff in Cork in September regarding the future requirements of the site.
CEO of the Cork Chamber of Commerce, Conor Healy, said the potential loss of 350 jobs would have a significant impact on the local economy, particularly with recent job losses at Bupa Ireland and FCI.
He said the company has contributed significantly to the local economy over many years, and has always employed highly skilled graduates.
He urged Motorola management team to do all they can to prevent the job losses.
