447 jobs lost as Banta to cease operations at Raheen

“A further disaster for Limerick, the workers and their families”

477 jobs are to be lost with the closure of the Banta (RR Donnelley)plant in the Raheen Industrial Estate.

The job losses will be on a phased basis over the next nine months according to a statement released by the company.

The decision, which was announced this evening, was inevitable given that Dell was the company's main client.

The decision was a result of 'customer's shifts in strategic direction' as well as global economic conditions, the company said.

The company, whose global headquarters are in Chicago, provides print and related services to businesses around the world.
Via RTE News

Limerick TD Kieran O'Donnell, deputy spokesperson for Fine Gael has said in the last while,

"I understand these job losses will be on a phased basis over the next nine months. I would like to extend my full sympathy to the staff and their families who face a very uncertain future. It is essential that a fair redundancy package is put in place which reflects the years of dedication put in by the loyal staff members.

These are highly skilled workers with years of experience working for a leading global company. It should be possible to find an alternative contract, and I am urging the Government and leading State agencies to immediately engage with Banta to find new business for the plant."

Workers at a company which works hand in hand with Dell in the Raheen Industrial Estate had been told on January 8th, the day Dell made their announcement, that their jobs at Banta were “on the line”.

Two weeks later SIPTU union officials said the company’s contracts with Dell were to be phased out during this year.

NEW DETAILS
More reaction from Limerick Labour TD Jan O'Sullivan,

"Following the news that 477 jobs are to go at Limerick company RR Donnelly, (formerly Banta) I sympathise with the workers who find themselves losing their jobs. Every effort must be made to get alternative business for the company.

As sad as the new is it was expected as their main client and the likelihood this news was clearly signalled at the time. Given this was expected the Government should have engaged earlier to try and get alternative business for the company"