City hit by 'heartbreaking' new jobs blow as cash machine firm axes another 50 jobs

DUNDEE was left reeling from another major jobs blow yesterday as cash-machine manufacturer NCR announced plans to axe another 50 posts at its plant in the city.

Eighteen months ago, 650 posts were shed at the Dundee plant after the Ohio-based multinational announced plans to switch the production of hole-in-the-wall cash machines to a new centre in Hungary and other factories in Beijing and India, leaving an 800-strong workforce still based in Dundee.

NCR said the proposed reduction was part of a move to streamline operations and improve cost effectiveness. It added that a 30-day consultation period had begun with employee representatives.

Joe Fitzpatrick, the MSP for Dundee West, said: "I am very disappointed at these further job losses. It is tragic for those facing redundancy, many of whom have been loyal employees of the company for decades.

"It is also more jobs bad news for Dundee and gives the impression that the city is struggling – which is not actually the case. Dundee's economy is in a relatively strong position."

Stewart Hosie, the local MP, added: "This is desperately disappointing for the city and heartbreaking for the individuals involved.