Talks on redundancy terms at troubled aircraft maintenance specialist, Lufthansa Technik, are to shift the Labour Relations Commission (LRC), while there is still some hope that a buyer is poised to save the plant from closure.

Its German parent recently announced it plans to close the Rathcoole, Co Dublin plant, with the loss of 400 jobs. Subsequent reports suggested a buyer could yet save the business.

Discussions
Following talks between management and the three unions that represent its staff, the company said in a statement yesterday that the sides had agreed to continue discussions at the LRC. It made no comment beyond that.

Spokesmen for Siptu and Unite both confirmed that those involved are seeking an early date at the LRC. They have also begun discussing severance packages with management as the deadline for a final decision from its owner on the Irish plant’s future is less than two weeks away.