Firm to brief threatened workers

Almost 400 jobs are under threat at the Coleraine plant

Almost 400 workers at one of Northern Ireland's biggest food processing factories are set to find out about the plant's future later.

The 380 workers at the Farm Fed chicken factory at Coleraine are expected to be told on Friday that the company faces major difficulties.

It is understood the problems arise from competition from low-priced poultry imports and escalating costs.

The family-owned firm processes 15 million chickens a year.

Farm Fed has experienced tough times before but has always managed to secure orders from companies such as Sainsbury's, Iceland and Kentucky Fried Chicken.

The factory takes chickens from about 60 poultry farms surrounding the County Londonderry town.

It is a matter of deep concern because this is a large employer in Coleraine and it will be a devastating blow for the area Gareth Scott Transport and General Workers' Union

Last year, 41 workers were laid off when orders dipped, but now there are new worries about the company's long-term viability.

There had been speculation that other poultry-processing companies could be interested in parts of the Farm Fed business.

The company, however, said it would not be commenting until it has spoken directly to staff.

'A devastating blow'

Gareth Scott of the Transport and General Workers' Union, which represents some workers at the plant, said the company would now have to consult over job losses.

The focus would now be on trying to minimise the impact of redundancies, he said.

"The rumour going round at the moment is that it could be fairly large," he said.

Last year 41 workers were laid off

"It is a matter of deep concern because this is a large employer in Coleraine and it will be a devastating blow for the area.

"We want to find out what is happening and what we can do."

SDLP assembly member John Dallat urged NI Economy Minister Angela Smith to go to Coleraine and reassure the threatened workers.

"It makes me extremely angry that Farm Fed could now be sacrificed to boost the profits of multi-nationals which keep telling us they care for the local economy."