Barford Meats Limited, one of the major employers in Carrickmacross, has ceased trading and is to shut down with the loss of 80 jobs.

The company was established on an IDA site more than 30 years ago to process beef, pork and lamb for retail outlets. Management informed the staff yesterday that the decision had been taken to cease trading from last night because of a number of problems, including marketing difficulties and failure to maintain financial viability.

Some 65 jobs are to go in the processing section, with the remainder in management and secretarial. SIPTU described the shut-down as "devastating" and said it would now be engaged in talks to get a satisfactory redundancy package for the workers.

A spokesman said it would also be focusing on where jobs could be found for those who have been dealt a blow in the countdown to Christmas.

The mayor of Carrickmacross, Ms Theresa Carolan, chairwoman of the town council, said last night: "The whole town is stunned by the announcement and our priority must be to have the large number of skilled workers at the industry re-employed, wherever this is possible in the region.

Local Fine Gael councillor, Mr John Keenan, said the area was devastated by the job losses.

"There is an onus on the Minister for Agriculture, Ms Mary Coughlan, and the Minister for Trade and Enterprise, Mr Martin, to take immediate steps to either save the plant, if this is at all possible, or provide an alternative outlet for the work force."

Meanwhile, Cavan/Monaghan Sinn Féin Dáil deputy Mr Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said the plant closure was a major blow for workers and their families in the region.

"I am appealing to the Trade and Enterprise Minister, Mr Martin, to take a personal interest in the situation and ensure, if the company cannot be saved, that replacement jobs are secured for the redundant workforce as a matter of urgency, he said.