US firm Magna Donnelly to shut Kildare plant with loss of 280 jobs

Irish
US firm Magna Donnelly to shut Kildare plant with loss of 280 jobs
By Finfacts Team
Dec 1, 2006, 15:01

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The Audi TT

US firm Magna Donnelly is to close its plant in Naas, Co Kildare by the end of 2007 with the loss of 280 jobs. The company, which makes mirrors for the car industry, attributed the planned shutdown to falling sales, fierce competition and high costs for its decision.

The company said the facility was no longer viable and is now entering a 30-day consultation period with workers.

The company is a subsidiary of US car parts supplier Magna International and has operated in Naas since 1968.

In May 2005, the company laid off 245 workers as it moved much of its production to North America and Spain.

"The decision is a difficult one, particularly considering the impact it will have on employees and the community," a statement from the company said. "Employees and their representatives have been kept informed regarding the situation and the possible closure over the last few months," it added.