Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

sludgegulper via Flickr/Creative Commons
Jobswatch

A 'black day' for Donegal Gaeltacht as 140 jobs go at Largo Foods

The firm announced the loss of 140 jobs at its Donegal plant today.

DONEGAL SENATOR BRIAN Ó Domhnaill has described Largo Food’s decision to exit Gaoth Dobhair (Gweedore) as a “devastating blow”.

He said today is a “black day” for the county’s Gaeltacht area.

The company announced that it would close its plant today, resulting in the loss of 140 jobs.

Production of products, which include Hunky Dorys and Tayto crisps, will transfer to the firm’s other operations in Meath by August. The Ashbourne facility employs 360 people.

Redundancies will commence from May.

“Many staff have worked there since the company first opened 18 years ago and many have other family members who also work there,” added Ó Domhnaill. “They are now wondering what they will do after the summer.”

CEO Maurice Hickey told Highland Radio that the decision was taken because of the high costs of manufacturing in Donegal. He hopes that 70 of the employees offered full-time positions in Ashbourne will transfer to Meath.

If they don’t redundancy arrangements will be made with discussions due to take place with staff and unions over the next month.

Commenting on support the company received from State agency, Údarás, Hickey said he believes Largo Foods will honour its obligations.

He noted that discussions have been ongoing with the agency.

Read: Northern Ireland’s richest man killed in helicopter crash

More: 4×4 set on fire at Quinn plant in Cavan

Your Voice
Readers Comments
36
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.