Job losses shock at Cadbury

LOCAL public representatives have expressed shock at the news that Cadbury will be shedding 70 jobs at its plant in Coolock. 

It’s understood that Mondelez, Cadbury’s owners, will be investing €15 million in manufacturing and packing technology. 

Dublin Bay North TD Tommy Broughan (Ind) said that while this promised investment is welcome, it’s very disappointing that this positive news is accompanied by an announcement of job cuts.   

“Cadbury at Oscar Traynor Road has been a very important employer for the greater Coolock area for nearly 70 years,” said Deputy Broughan. “Indeed, the plant which originated and developed many important chocolate products has played an iconic role in Coolock’s history with members of thousands of our families employed there.”

Deputy Broughan said the company has informed him that the job losses will be “mainly through leavers and voluntary redundancies over the next two years”. 

“But this is still very disquieting news for the workforce and their trade unions,” he added.  

Northside councillor Larry O’Toole (SF) has also expressed disappointment at news of the job losses.

Meanwhile, representatives of unions SIPTU and Unite will meet with the management of Mondelez Ireland this week to discuss the announcement.

SIPTU Organiser Colm Casserly said: “Our members are deeply unhappy with the announcement by management that it is seeking 70 staff redundancies. 

“We are currently consulting our members prior to a meeting with management, which will take place at the earliest opportunity.” 

Mr Casserly added: “At this meeting, SIPTU and Unite representatives will make clear our members’ position and seek to minimise the number of job losses at the plant.”