BARRY based global chemical manufacturer Dow Corning has finished their consultation period, following the announcement of plans to axe around 115 jobs at its Cardiff Road plant.

The 45-day consultation exercise ended this week and staff are now being spoken to on an individual basis.

The company announced the job cut proposals, affecting around 629 employees, in June this year.

A Dow Corning spokeswoman said: “As part of the drive to realise cost synergies, one of the measures being taken was workforce consultations from both Dow and Dow Corning, impacting approximately 2,500 global employees.

"It was anticipated that approximately 115 roles could be impacted by this decision at Dow Corning Limited, Barry.

"Dow Corning Limited has confirmed that the initial consultation period has come to an end and one to one consultations with affected employees to discuss their unique situations are being completed.

“The final number of roles that could be impacted will not be confirmed until the conclusion of the individual discussions in order to consider potential redeployment opportunities within the organisation.

“In the event of redundancy, a robust out placement package is in place, which includes partnership with Career Centre Wales to offer all necessary support.”

Vale politicians have commented on the closure. MP Alun Cairns said it was "hugely disappointing news for Barry" that so many people could be set to lose their jobs.

South Wales Central AM Andrew RT Davies said: "This has been an uncertain time for the plant's workforce and it is therefore vital the company commits to providing the relevant support through retraining programmes and the like to any individual who faces the prospect of redundancy."

Vale AM Jane Hutt said she had met with management and union representatives and also liaised with the Welsh Government secretary for the economy Ken Skates to ensure the Welsh Government would offer support.

She said: “I will be keeping in close touch to monitor the outcome of the consultation for the loyal Dow Corning workforce."