THE MANAGERS AT the bread factory which caught fire in Offaly last week have expressed their sadness at having to let go of most of their staff.
In a statement released this afternoon, they said they are “resolutely committed to rebuilding the business in Clara following the recent devastating fire at our premises”.
However, as the existing building needs to be demolished, the majority of the company’s employees will lose their jobs.
“As we are totally reliant on specialist equipment which has to be manufactured and then sourced from the USA, this means that it is very unlikely we will be up and running again before the summer.”
The management and directors acknowledged that the situation is “devastating” for the people who will be let go, and their families. They said it is also “frustrating and deeply disappointing” for them.
Excluding seasonal and temporary workers, 23 people have lost their jobs. Only nine people are being retained on a full or part-time basis.
The statement continued:
We value deeply our staff’s skills, loyalty and support but it is simply not possible for us to continue to pay them for what is an unspecified length of time or to expect them to wait until we may be in a position to offer them employment again.
“We have been considering all options with our insurers to see how we can reopen as soon as possible.”
The business supplies dough products to Dominos Pizzas in Ireland and the UK. Management added that they were trying to minimise disruption to the company’s customers.
“We have already put in place contingency supply for some products and are working on securing alternative supply for the remainder.
“We would like to thank all those who have offered support to us at this difficult time and hope we can get up and running as quickly as possible.”
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