Waterford Crystal workers hold general meetings in city
17 January 2009
The Unite trade union has addressed over 500
current and retired Waterford Crystal workers in Waterford
today. Union officials briefed the members on meetings held
throughout this week with representatives of KPS Capital Partners
and the government.
“We met with the prospective purchasers of the
company on Thursday,” said Unite regional organiser, Walter
Cullen. “We covered a wide range of issues of concern to our
members, including the future of Waterford Crystal manufacturing,
outstanding agreements and commitments from the company and the
question of pension liabilities.”
“We advised our members today that this is the
beginning of a process through which we hope to secure a future for
the company in Waterford.”
“We do not want to offer false hope but while
talks continue and the manufacturing operation continues as a going
concern we must maintain a cautious optimism.”
“There is a tremendous bond between the
industry, the workforce that have created such an iconic brand and
the City that is it’s only natural home,” added Jimmy Kelly, Unite
Irish Regional Secretary who himself spent over 30 years as a
craftsman at Waterford Crystal. “All sides recognise this and
need to be willing to make whatever effort is required to give at
least the hope of a positive outcome.”
“Our members have today mandated us to engage
in ongoing dialogue with the potential investors, the receiver, the
government and the Irish Congress of Trade Union. To make
progress will require imagination, integrity and a willingness to
do whatever is possible for those workers and their families who
are enduring such uncertainty at this present time.”
End:
Walter Cullen and Jimmy Kelly will be
available for interview outside the Waterford Crystal Sports and
Social Centre on Saturday 17th January from between 4.30 and
5pm.
Further information: Walter Cullen – Unite
Regional Organiser on 087 6892085 or Rob Hartnett – Hartnett
McClure PR on 086 3851955
