92 jobs lost as Cork plant closes
Thursday, 3 July 2003 19:53
A Japanese chemical company is to close in Cork with the loss of 92 jobs.
Mitsui Denman manufactures electrolytic manganese dioxide which is used to make batteries. The company has had a facility in Cork for the past 27 years.
Staff were notified of the closure earlier today. According to a statement issued this afternoon, the company said it is in 'a irreversible loss making situation'. The market has changed radically in the past two years with a slow down in demand and a weaker US dollar.
They also cited increased competition from the Far East and the growth of private label brands and rechargeable batteries as other factors which affected the viability of the Cork plant.
The company statement said that the plant will close over the coming weeks.
In response to the announcement, the Tanaiste, Mary Harney, said: ' I am very aware of the effect that this and other announcements have on workers, their families and their communities.
'An effective response to the challenge of finding alternative employment for these workers to is to ensure that Ireland remains a competitive location to grow and attract new investment.'
- 6.01 News: Jennie O'Sullivan reports from Cork
