HOURS CUT AT MITEL
Mitel Networks, Caldicot's largest employer, responded to cashflow problems by cutting the hours of its workforce by ten per cent. The cuts, which will initially be in force for three months, apply to the 600 workers at Caldicot and to those in its other plants around the world. Some workers at Caldicot criticised the decision, pointing out that, only days before, Mitel had announced that it would be sponsoring the Wales Open golf tournament at Celtic Manor. Celtic Manor is owned by Terry Matthew's, who is also part-owner of Mitel.

PAPER MILL PLANS EXPANSION
St Regis Ltd has applied for planning permission to build a waste paper recycling plant next to its paper mill at Sudbrook. The company reported that the new plant will not create any more jobs but would make the existing mill more competitive, thus helping to secure the jobs of existing employees. The proposal has been opposed by Portskewett Community Council on the grounds that it would lead to unacceptable increases in noise and traffic.

BY ROYAL COMMAND
Caldicot Male Voice Choir performed in front of the Queen at Buckingham Palace during the Jubilee celebrations. Their songs included Llef (a Welsh hymn) and When the Saints Go Marching In. Television pictures of their performance were broadcast to crowds in the Mall and to audiences across the world.

ALL SMILES AT TROUBLED SCHOOL
St Mary's Primary School, Caldicot, which hit the national headlines when its headteacher was prosecuted and finally acquitted on charges of assault against a pupil, has received a good report from school inspectors.

<<May 2002
© Caldicot Community Website