Some workers at the Avon Arlington plant in Portarlington, Co Laois, may be back at work next week even though the plant has officially closed its doors. Over 300 lost their jobs at the plant, which has been manufacturing costume jewellery and cosmetics for 20 years and had been the largest employer in the town.
On Thursday the workers left the plant having received their last pay cheque and severance of 61/2 weeks' pay for each year served, including statutory redundancy. However, it was learned yesterday that some of the workforce, probably 40, will be re-employed to finish off existing orders and may be working until the end of the year.