A Shannon-based construction materials manufacturer has announced a restructuring plan which could save 160 jobs at the plant.

Mayor of Clare Tony Mulcahy welcomed Element Six's management proposals that would see 240 of 450 jobs at the facility being retained.

However, the move will involve significant restructuring and adjustment to the cost base at the facility.

"I warmly welcome the news that Element Six has given local management its full backing for a new plan, which is aimed at safeguarding jobs at the Shannon facility," said Mayor Mulcahy.

"The priority for everybody concerned must be to ensure the maximum possible number of jobs are protected."

-- Advertisement --

He lauded the Government's efforts through Shannon Development.

"The Government's commitment of providing additional training grants and temporary wage subsidies to support the restructuring plan is a positive step and one that will ease the burden for those workers who will lose their jobs.

"I now urge company representatives and those workers who are to be made redundant to carefully consider all possible options to secure a satisfactory redundancy package over the coming weeks."

The Mayor added: "This announcement will inject confidence among Mid West-based multinationals to continue operating and investing in the region.

"The decline of the manufacturing sector in Co Clare has had a significant impact on the local economy and every effort must be made to restore confidence."

Element Six is one of the leading suppliers of supermaterials - materials whose exceptional properties are unique or outperform others in their class.

The group's products are used across a wide range of industries from mining and construction to consumer electronics, within medicine and for oil and gas production.

(PR/JM)