Grant Engineering to cut 30 jobs in Birr

Grant Engineering in Birr is to cut 30 jobs from its workforce as a direct result of the economic downturn. The job losses are effective immediately. A spokeswoman for the company said yesterday (Thursday) afternoon: 'Thirty people are being let go due to the downturn in the economy.' The company, one of the largest manufacturers and suppliers of domestic oil fired boilers in Ireland and the UK employs around 270 people at their factory in Crinkle, Birr. The business also leads the way in oil fired condensing boiler technology and other heating products. Grant Engineering was established over 30 years ago by Birr native Stephen Grant who was some weeks ago named as the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year. Turnover at Grant Engineering hit €75 million in 2007, up from €48 million in 2005 and €58 million a year later. During that time employment numbers also increased, from 15 in 1981 to over 270 at present making it one of the town"s largest employer.