Investor Relations
News Detail
Independent agrees union deals for future production at Citywest
Independent Newspapers (Ireland) Limited this evening (Thursday, 11th May 2000) confirmed that they had reached final agreement with the Irish Print Group (I.P.G.) and SIPTU Printing Trades Branch on new pay and working conditions at the new EUR60m full colour production plant, which is currently nearing completion at Citywest on the Naas Road. The Company confirmed that this followed separate secret ballot votes of both I.P.G. and SIPTU staff members, who voted in favour to accept the Company's proposals for the future staffing and operation of the new printing facility.
Commenting on these developments, Independent's Managing Director, Mr. Gavin O'Reilly said: "We are delighted with this result. It's a win, win for both the staff and the Company. After months of very intensive negotiations on both sides, these collective agreements are positive proof of our partnership approach and a clear justification of our strategic decision to invest over EUR60m in our Irish operations. The new operating terms and conditions are both comprehensive and progressive, and will ensure the continued vitality and competitiveness of our market-leading newspaper titles well into the future".
These two unions represent the vast majority (over 90%) of the production workforce, and their positive acceptance of the Company's new operating terms and conditions paves the way for immediate training and ensures the efficient transition to 'live' printing at Citywest from the end of November 2000. The formal agreements achieve the criteria set out by the Company, and facilitate the agreed voluntary redundancy programme, which provides for optimal staffing, the reintroduction of 5-shift day working, and the introduction of modern working practices. This will strengthen the Company's position in an increasingly competitive marketplace and secures the Company for the benefit of its brands, employees and shareholders.
Ends. Thursday, 11th May 2000
For Reference: Jim Milton
Murray Consultants Limited
Tel: +353 - 1 - 632 6400
+353 - 86 - 255 8400
Pauline McAlester
Murray Consultants Limited
Tel: +353 - 1 - 663 3332
+353 - 87 - 255 8300
