Ash cloud accounts for 30 lay-offs

SHANNON Airport-based EFG Inflight is temporarily laying-off 30 staff because of disruptions associated with the volcanic ash cloud.

The catering company employs 75 people and is making the temporary lay-offs because one of its major customers, Omni Air International, has diverted its business away from Shannon for the moment.
Ian Malone of EFG Inflight told The Clare Champion that the situation is ­regrettable but the company has been suffering due to the ash cloud for several weeks.
“The first thing is to point out that these aren’t job losses because of the volcanic ash, people are being let go temporarily. Omni has relocated its base but it’s very fluid and it’s up for review on a daily basis. We have been carrying the situation for three to four weeks now.”
Mr Malone said that the company recently expanded its number of workers and is also looking to open up a shop in Ennis.
Shannon Airport has been open all this week and at the time of writing, all Irish airports are open until further notice.
Shannon Airport has said that people who were hit for additional parking charges due to the ash cloud will be refunded.
“Car park customers who have been charged for an ­additional unplanned stay as a result of the disruption to air travel caused by the volcanic ash cloud are asked to contact Shannon Airport, as they may be entitled to a refund for the extra portion of their stay. Customers should provide details of their original trip and of any alternative travel plans that they made as a result of the disruption.
“Send information to Volcanic Ash Car Park Refund, c/o Car Parks Administration, Shannon Airport, County Clare,” said a spokesman.