Up to 60 jobs are at risk at two valleys factories. Global aerospace and defence company, General Dynamics, has announced a reduction of its overall UK workforce, including those working at its Oakdale-based branch in Bryn Brithdir, in Caerphilly, as well as those at its branch in Pentrebach, Merthyr Tydfil
A spokeswoman for the business said: "We have taken the difficult, but unavoidable, decision to reduce our UK workforce. This is a reflection of the current status of our key programmes. We remain committed to delivering these important programmes for the British Armed Forces. We are engaging directly with those affected employees as we undertake this process.”
A total of 60 jobs could be slashed from its Oakdale and Merthyr branches in total as affected staff have entered a 45-day consultation phase, the spokeswoman said. The exact breakdown of at-risk roles across the two facilities has not been confirmed.
It is understood that affected staff - including engineering staff in Oakdale - have been made aware of possible internal vacancies which may be suitable for them instead. A second spokesman for General Dynamics said the company is engaging with affected employees and union, Unite, as the process continues.
The site at Oakdale develops tactical communications systems including Bowman, the British Army’s Tactical Communication and Information System (CIS), Evolve to Open (EvO) and land systems for the AJAX Armoured Fighting Vehicles (AFV). The Merthyr Tydfil site specialises as an engineering hub for the AJAX Armoured Fighting Vehicles for the British Army.
Oakdale's local councillor Roy Saralis said: "I'm extremely upset, particularly at this time when prices are going through the roof, costs of everything is on the rise. it's going to be a devastating blow to families in my area. It's going to possibly mean people are not going to be able to afford their homes, causing a huge amount of stress and worry. It's a very, very sad situation and I hope it can be resolved and there will be availability there for them to be able to continue with work."
MP for Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney Gerald Jones and MS Dawn Bowden said: “General Dynamics’ announcement of job losses is a body blow for the community. We have met with staff and trade unions many times and we know the hard work and dedication they have given to the company and to the defence sector. We will be meeting with trade unions shortly to discuss today’s shock announcement and how best staff can be supported.”
