Irish Fertiliser Industries says it is considering a three month shutdown of its operations at Marino Point in Cork because of a downturn in the market.
The country's largest producer of bulk chemicals and fertiliser, with operations at Cork, Arklow and Belfast, says the demand for its product has fallen over 10% in the past two years.
A decision on the shutdown has not yet been taken but if it goes ahead, the first three months of 2003 is the most likely time, as natural gas, which is used in the production of ammonia, is more expensive during these months.
SIPTU's National Industrial Secretary, Noel Dowling, says he is concerned about how any such shutdown would affect the 200 strong workforce in Cork, and says he will be seeking clarification when he meets the company in September.
The company has also signalled that it will be seeking to defer a 4% payment under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness.
Irish Fertiliser Industries is the country's largest producer of bulk chemicals and the sole manufacturer of agricultural fertiliser.
It produces in excess of 1.3 million tonnes of fertiliser annually, in addition to a range of speciality chemicals for the Irish and European markets.
