Trade union Unite is to seek a meeting with Heinz to discuss the implications of its restructuring plans on Irish workers.

The company has warned it may cut almost 250 jobs at its UK and Ireland operations as part of a new “streamlined structure.”

“Unfortunately, the proposals may result in a number of difficult organisational changes, including the elimination of 248 office positions across the UK and Ireland. We regret the impact this may have on Heinz employees and their families,” the company said.

Heinz, which was taken private this year by Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway and Jorge Paulo Lemann's 3G Capital, employs about 2,500 people across the UK and Ireland, with about 270 staff at its factory in Dundalk, Co Louth.

'Valued employer'
Unite, which represents workers at the company's Dundalk facility, said Heinz had been a reliable employer over the years.

The union said it was attempting to meet the company.

Fianna Fáil Louth TD Seamus Kirk yesterday called on Minister for Jobs Richard Bruton to contact management at Heinz regarding the future of its operation in Dundalk.

“Heinz is a large and valued employer in Dundalk and any loss of jobs would be a serious blow to the local economy,” he said.