More than 70 jobs are to be axed at a Co Offaly timber window and doors manufacturer, it has been announced.

Danish firm Rationel, will close its Edenderry plant in November, resulting in the loss of 71 jobs.

The company - owned by the Denmark-based Rationel Vinduer A/S - will continue to develop its sales and service business in Ireland, but supplies will now come from its factories in Poland and Denmark.

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The downturn in the construction industry has been named as a major factor in the decision to close the plant, as well as the weakness of the sterling against the euro.

"In the past, such downturns were compensated for by the business from the UK but the weakness of UK sterling against the euro has largely closed this avenue off," the Managing Director of Rationel (Ireland) said.

"The employees in Edenderry have shown great skill and dedication but there is no realistic prospect of the manufacturing part of the business turning around."

(JM)