Jobs cut at Kirkton based electronics company

Jan 8 2009 by Debbie Spalding, West Lothian Courier

ELECTRONICS company Shin-Etsu (SEH Europe) has announced it will cut around 50 jobs at its Livingston base.

The Japanese-owned firm, which produces semiconductor silicon wafers, employs 520 people at its Kirkton site.

Bosses said the reason for the cuts was the “continuing downturn in the semiconductor market”.

A spokeswoman said: “SEH Europe Ltd is proposing to make approximately 50 employees redundant.

“The company is considering such action to reduce costs and help maintain its competitive position.

“The employee consultation process is currently underway, and no decision will be taken until this has been completed.

“The consultation process will be carried out during the course of the next several weeks.”

West Lothian Council chiefs are now seeking a meeting to discuss the proposed job cuts at the factory, which opened in 1984.

“It is always disappointing to hear about any job losses in West Lothian,” said executive councillor for development and transport Martyn Day. “It is a particular setback at the start of a new year.

“We will be seeking a meeting with the company to discuss its plans. We will also be working with our partners to offer assistance, support and advice to local employees.”