Turkey jobs slashed

- Published: 13 February, 2008

A turkey production company in the Republic of Ireland is being forced to slash jobs after being hit by competition from cheap imports.

Grove Turkeys of Monaghan will cut 100 jobs, reducing staff numbers from 230 to 130. Managing director Tom O'Driscoll said: "It is with deep regret that we make this decision. The very survival of the company is at stake. The fact remains that overseas producers have a phenomenal advantage in terms of costs and we haven't been able to compete with this during the low seasons."

Seymour Crawford, a parliamentary deputy for the area, commented: "This is not only a severe blow to the workforce and their families, but it will also have a serious impact on 85 farm families north and south of the border, who have committed their lives to this industry."