Cork Dulux employees vote to accept redundancy terms

Employees at the Dulux plant in Cork have voted to accept redundancy terms offered by AkzoNobel for the closure of its paint manufacturing site on Commons Road.

Dulux’s parent company, AkzoNobel confirmed the site’s closure and loss of 45 jobs in May, with the latest developments revealing that the plant will officially close on a phased basis by December 31.

Following a period of collective consultation with local union and employee representatives, the company further confirmed that redundancy terms have been accepted by those affected by the upcoming closure.

In a statement provided to The Echo by AkzoNobel, the company expressed its gratitude to employees, acknowledging their professionalism during what has been a very difficult time for everyone impacted.

AkzoNobel further reiterated that the closure of the Cork plant will have no bearing on the company’s non-manufacturing operations in Dublin, for which further investment is planned.

Managing director of Dulux Paints Ireland, Seamus O’Donoghue said: “Business decisions of this nature are never easy on those impacted and it has been a tough time for colleagues in Cork, who are an incredible and professional team of people.

“The closure of the plant is not related to our people but rather, is part of a wider plan to continually improve the business through newer and more streamlined processes and technological advancements.

“On behalf of the company, I wish to extend my thanks and gratitude to the team in Cork for their stellar work and their commitment to consistent standards of excellence over many years,” he added.

“There will be a period of transition over several months as production moves to the UK in a controlled and organised way.

“Our customers in Ireland can feel reassured that they will receive the same product formulations and enhanced levels of supply from the Dulux team in Ireland.”

Following the closure, the Dulux Academy and technical support will be relocated to Dublin, and warehouse capacity will be expanded to enhance supply and distribution for customers in Ireland, with sales, marketing, warehousing and logistics remaining unaffected.

Paint production for the Irish market will now move to the UK.