Fears for up to 500 jobs at Bord na Móna as cuts expected in Newbridge and Athy

Up to 500 jobs could be lost at one of Kildare’s major employers as Bord na Móna are planning to announce a number of cuts this month.

According to a report in today’s Irish Independent, the peat manufacturing company are planning to announce up to 500 redundancies as a result of their move from peat production to more environmentally friendly forms of energy.

Bord na Móna’s headquarters are based in Newbridge and they also have a large plant in Kilberry, Athy, and according to the Irish Independent’s report there will be a number of cuts in each place.

Tom Donnellan, who has recently been appointed as chief executive, is planning to put his own stamp on the company according to the report. According to a senior union official, at least 200 jobs will go and there are plans to close 17 of the 62 bogs.

The board are set to meet next week, but the report suggests that the redundancies will not be compulsory.

A spokesperson for the company has said an "ongoing process of engagement with employees and the group of unions" is now taking place.