Jacobs jobs saved as workers back new plan

Workers at the Jacobs Fruitfield factory  in Tallaght saved their jobs this afternooon after voting to accept new working arrangements.

Employees at the factory voted to accept the more flexible work practices, which management insisted were necessary to ensure the future of the plant and which the staff had previously rejected. Unions had urged staff to reconsider the proposals.

"Following clarification on new work practices to improve efficiencies - as recommended by the Labour Court - the workers made the right decision today," said Brendan Carr, assistant branch organiser in Siptu's food branch.

"Three hundred jobs will now be maintained, and agreed pay structures will remain in place."

The Minister of State, Conor Lenihan, today met separately with Siptu branch secretary Brendan Carr and the chief executive of Jacobs Fruitfield, Michael Carey, before the staff ballot took place.

Jacob's Fruitfield is one of Tallaght's biggest employers.