Hi-tech workers to be spared worst of global job cuts

IRISH workers at two of the world's biggest hi-tech companies have so far been spared the worst of thousands of global job cuts announced by both corporations yesterday.
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Intel, the State's largest private employer with 5,000 workers at its Leixlip plant said Ireland would not be affected by the decision to shut five factories around the world with the loss of up to 6,000 jobs.

However, the company confirmed that the Irish site was involved in a worldwide evaluation of proposals to cut a further 1,000 manufacturing and related staff jobs from its 80,000 workforce.

It follows confirmation from US software giant Microsoft that its Irish operation, which employs over 1,200 staff at Sandyford, Dublin, that only a "small number" of positions -- believed to be around 20 -- are set to go as part of 5,000 job cutting exercise.

Intel, the world's largest computer chip manufacturer, celebrates its 20th year in Ireland this year. Following publication of its fourth-quarter results which showed a massive dip in profits, the company confirmed yesterday that Intel Ireland along with all of the company world sites was taking part in an "in-depth examination" of their businesses and contributing to a global cost-cutting plan.

Along with the 6,000 job losses, the company said a further reduction of 1,000 manufacturing and related staff jobs was being sought from its 80,000 workforce worldwide.

Intel confirmed yesterday that this process was being evaluated and it would communicate its decision to staff at Leixlip as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, following an 11pc fall in net profits in the second quarter of its financial year, Microsoft said it would eliminate 5,000 jobs in R & D, marketing, sales and IT over the next 18 months -- including the immediate loss of 1,400 jobs.

A spokesperson for Microsoft Ireland confirmed that a "small number" of positions in Ireland were included in the immediate job elimination plans.

However, it is understood the company continues to recruit in Ireland. "The company plans to continue to assess the business and technology environment over the next 18 months -- it will make necessary changes to ensure the right resources are focused on the right priorities."

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BY Fergus Black
Source：Independent.ie