THE impending closure of a company in Clonshaugh Industrial Estate with the loss of 79 jobs has been described as a
“body blow
? for the area.
Dublin North East TD Tommy Broughan (Lab) was speaking after it was announced that Diamond Innovations would close in September.
“There was great shock and disappointment in Clonshaugh when people learned that Diamond Innovations is to close,
? said Deputy Broughan.
“This important company has been providing employment to local people in Clonshaugh and Coolock for decades.
“Diamond Innovations staff have provided outstanding service to the company since 1981.
“The loss of another hi-tech company from the Clonshaugh campus is another body blow to the wider Northside.
?
Deputy Broughan said it was incumbent upon Jobs Minister Richard Bruton to act immediately to tackle the ongoing jobs crisis on the Northside.
“I also intend to raise this matter with Minister Bruton and Taoiseach Enda Kenny in Dail Eireann,
? he added.
In a statement to Northside People, Diamond Innovations Ireland said it has advised its employees that, following a strategic review, it proposes to consolidate all Dublin-based production into its headquarters site in Worthington, Ohio.
“It is intended that this consolidation will take place over a number of months and that the plant in Dublin will cease production at the end of September,
? a spokesperson for the company stated.
“The company currently employs 79 people at its plant in Clonshaugh Business Park.
“Diamond Innovations has been in operation in Ireland since 1981 and is a subsidiary of Sandvik AB.
“The company has commenced a 30-day period of discussion and consultation with employees and their representatives regarding the impact of this announcement.
?
President of Diamond Innovations, Mark Schweizer, paid tribute to the employees who had given great service and commitment to the company over many years.
He added that the management of Diamond Innovations was aware of the impact this decision would have on employees. The company would endeavor to provide support and assistance to all affected employees over the next few weeks and months.
Meanwhile, SIPTU representatives have met with the management of Diamond Innovations to discuss the announcement.
SIPTU organiser, Karl Byrne, said the news was devastating for the workers and their families.
“SIPTU representatives will be entering into negotiations with management regarding possible future employment for workers facing the loss of their jobs,
? stated Mr Byrne.
“The negotiations will also focus on achieving a fair and reasonable redundancy package for our members.
?
Forty of the staff employed by Diamond Innovations in Dublin are SIPTU members.