JOB cuts at Dow Corning's Barry plant are yet to be confirmed, the company has said - despite rumours and statements of concern from local politicians.

The chemical manufacturer says a 45-day consultation on the potential loss of 115 jobs is due to conclude in mid-August.

Until then no cuts will be confirmed, it added.

A Dow Corning spokeswoman said: “Regarding the announcement about the synergies at the Dow Corning site – the employees are still going through a 45-day consultation period which is not due to finish until the middle of August.

“With this in mind it would not be appropriate for us to comment on any potential job losses at the site as yet none have been confirmed.”

The global company, with 629 employees in Barry, originally announced its proposal to cut the jobs on Wednesday June 29.

Politicians have now called for 'urgent clarity' on the situation, after widespread reports that the jobs had been axed. It prompted South Wales Central AM Andrew RT Davies to called the situation 'deeply regrettable' last night.

Mr Davies said today: “Whilst we cannot be naïve and think Dow Corning’s decision to restructure its worldwide operations is unlikely to have an impact on the operations at the Barry plant, the mixed reports surrounding the consultation period and potential job cuts are only going to add to what is currently a deeply unsettling period for the workers and their families.

“It is therefore important that Dow Corning provide urgent clarity to the workforce and handle this matter as efficiently and sensitively as possible to ensure the effect on hardworking families is kept to an absolute minimum. 

“If the consultation results in significant job cuts it will be vital Dow Corning provides the best possible redundancy packages and retraining programmes – and it is imperative the Welsh Labour Government also plays its part and works closely with the company to protect the future of its workers.

“The Dow Corning site in Barry is renowned as world-leading and we must do all we can to ensure it remains an important and significant part of the local community and economy.”

Vale MP, Alun Cairns, who has met with company bosses, also said today: "Dow Corning is a hugely important part of the local economy and will continue to be a major employer into the future.

"I am very disappointed that the headcount at the Barry plant is likely to decrease as a result of Dow's decision to reduce the size of its workforce across the globe."