Packaging multinational denies claims Newport jobs are not for local people
7 March 2016
A Packaging firm has moved to alleviate fears that none of its 170 new Newport jobs are aimed at local workers.
The Argus revealed this week that Essentra were looking to fill for the positions following its expansion into a neighbouring building at its Celtic Way site.
The employment boost came after another 70 jobs were announced in November - both of which were made possible by £400,000 of investment by the Welsh Government.
However, job adverts for the additional Newport roles have this week appeared across Europe, including in Poland, prompting a number of Argus readers to raise concerns that the jobs would not be for local people.
One advert also states that interviews for the role will be held in Poland, rather than Newport.
A reader, commenting on the Argus website, said: "Unbelievable - £400,000 of Welsh money and they aren't even employing Welsh people. I guess that money is going towards paying for the migration and accommodation of foreign workers."
But Essentra say they are only looking to recruit 24 employees from further afield due to the need for specialist skills.
A spokeswoman said: "These 24 roles are highly specialist and unfortunately we are unable to recruit for these positions locally, so are widening our net.
"For all the other roles, we are actively recruiting locally and have a dedicated team on site in Newport who are committed to maximising opportunities for people living in the local area."
The multinational firm has 29 packaging manufacturing sites worldwide, including Lublin in Poland, and is planning to create a Newport centre of excellence in the production of labels and foil, cartons manufacturing and an on-site structural and graphic design studio.
The expanison will bring the total headcount at Essentra's Newport campus to approximately 330.
Essentra opened its initial 52,000 sq ft site in Imperial Park, Newport, in 2014, and is now expanding into a 225 sq ft facility next door.
Source : southwalesargus.co.uk