 |
Network Journal 2005 Issue 3 |
 |
Fire wrecks Hilliers food factory
More than 350 staff at the Hilliers food factory in Plympton, Devon have been made redundant after a fire devastated the site leaving the company with no alternative but to close the business.
Hundreds of Usdaw members, many with long service, were left 'shocked' and facing financial hardship after the blaze destroyed their jobs in late July.
Union rep John O'Connell, who had worked at the site for 25 years, toured the remains just days later. "It was complete destruction. It was clear it was the end of the road," he said.
"Everybody's shocked. We enjoyed working there, it was like a family firm. We now face weeks of uncertainty as we try and sort out redundancy and benefit payments."
Area organiser John Crick was on site soon after the fire to help the workforce with their employment rights. "This was a disastrous event," he said. "We set up meetings immediately with the members to help them through this very difficult period. Some staff have been there for more than 30 years and have never been out of work."
 Printer Friendly Page  Email to a Friend
|
