Apple Computers will unveil its global operations plan, including the future of its printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing section in Cork, later this week, informed sources have said.
The review of global operations, including Apple's European manufacturing operation in Cork, began last March when Mr Tim Cook, new senior vice-president of worldwide operations took over.
It was followed by indications that Apple planned to relocate its circuit board manufacturing to a location of cheaper labour in the Far East, a move that could result in the loss of up to 500 jobs in Cork.
Apple has declined to comment on the speculation but uncertainty over the jobs at Apple, the largest private employer in Cork, has triggered widespread concern and Government intervention.
The Tanaiste Ms Harney and the IDA Ireland chief executive Mr Kieran McGowan met with two top Apple Computer executives in California on Friday.
Officials from Ms Harney's office are due to meet a delegation of SIPTU shop stewards in Cork today to brief them on the talks with Apple in the US. Union representatives had expected to meet with officials yesterday but the meeting was pushed back to today.
The circuit board manufacturing division is the only section of Apple's Cork operation with a question mark over it. The plant, which employs 1,800 at present, manufactures the new, portable G3 Powerbook, known internally by the codename `Wall Street' and is busy trying to meet demand for products.
