Kostal Plans Job Cuts: 200 Positions at Risk in Abbeyfeale

Discussions are set to take place next month between union representatives and management at the automotive parts manufacturer Kostal, regarding potential job cuts at its facility in Abbeyfeale. Reports indicate that up to 200 jobs may be eliminated from the current workforce of 400, as the German company plans to transfer a key production line to China.

Following the initial announcement last month, representatives from the trade union Siptu conducted discussions on-site in Abbeyfeale late last week. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment has not yet been formally notified of any impending job losses, which is a requirement in scenarios involving widespread redundancies.

A Siptu organizer, Rory Hawkins, confirmed that a meeting occurred on Thursday, October 9. He noted, “There is no news yet. Kostal are still in talks with clients. They cannot commit to the line overseas until they have agreement with these clients.” Another meeting is scheduled for November 7, where updates on the situation may be provided.

Kostal, which has operated in Ireland since 1981, released a statement emphasizing its commitment to managing the current challenges within the automotive industry in a fair and constructive manner. The company’s spokesperson highlighted the ongoing discussions with clients, which are critical for the future of the production line.

Concerns have been raised about the impact of potential job losses on the local community. Joanne Collins, a senator from Sinn Féin, urged the government to intensify efforts to support employees facing redundancy. She remarked, “A lot of the workers in there would have gone straight into Kostal from secondary school. That’s the way it was done in the 1980s. Sixteen and 17-year-olds wouldn’t have known anything else. They wouldn’t have done an interview in 40 years.”

As the situation develops, the discussions between management and union representatives will be closely monitored, with significant implications for workers and the local economy in Abbeyfeale.