As many as 315 jobs are set to be lost as Cardinal Health is to close a facility in Tullamore.
Staff were told at a meeting on Thursday morning that operations will be wound down on a phased basis between now and 2026. It is believed the company’s Dublin based operations will not be impacted.
In a statement on Thursday, the company said the plan was to “consolidate production” from its Tullamore facility to “other facilities within our self-manufacturing network” in March of 2026.
“Commercial activities in Ireland will not be impacted by these plans,” it said. “This decision is part of our regular assessment of our global business, manufacturing and supply chain operations to ensure we are able to meet the evolving needs of our customers, the industry and our business.”
Irish chef shot dead after altercation outside his restaurant in Kansas City
Trump staff ‘altercation’ drags sacrosanct Arlington cemetery into campaign mudslinging
An air steward on Kirstie Allsopp’s parenting: Some parents have no shame
Fota Wildlife Park cyberattack: Thousands may be vulnerable as financial and other personal details compromised
Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke said his “primary concern” was for staff and their families “who are now coming to terms with the impact of this announcement”.
“Following this morning’s town hall meeting with staff, and along with the IDA (Industrial Development Authority) and my Department we will work with the company management and with staff on current and potential future possibilities,” he said.
“We will make every effort to identify alternative employment opportunities for the staff affected by this announcement,” he added.
On Wednesday afternoon staff were advised that production would cease to allow for all staff to attend the meeting on Thursday morning for an announcement.
Inheritance tax in Ireland: What are the rules, and could they be changed in the budget?
Siptu area organiser Ashling Dunne told RTÉ radio’s news at One that every effort would be made and no stone would be left unturned in attempts to save jobs and to encourage a replacement company for the site.
Fianna Fáil MEP Barry Cowen said the closure will see one of the company’s product lines discontinued and the remaining two relocated to Mexico and Costa Rica in what he described as “a significant blow to the local economy”.
“The closure of Cardinal’s plant will have a profound impact on our local workforce, many of whom have dedicated years of service to the company,” he said.
“My immediate focus is on the employees and their families who are directly affected by this decision. I have been assured that an adequate redundancy package will be put in place to recognise their commitment and contribution over the years.”
Mr Cowen also highlighted the “urgent need” for proactive measures to address the economic vacuum left by the plant’s closure.
The Cathaoirleach of Offaly County Council Councillor Tony McCormack said he had spoken with the Tánaiste Micheál Martin and the Minister for Trade and Employment Peter Burke to appeal for the support of government agencies.
He said he had been assured that everything would be done to ensure the staff could avail of upskilling and reskilling and he was hopeful that all could find jobs.
The facility at which Cardinal Health operates has hosted a number of medical device companies over the past 40 years, he said and the workforce had been very loyal, some of them working there for over 20 years.
“They’ve been a huge addition to the local economy as well. There are other companies out there that provide many services to the site. They’ll be looking at what’s going to happen to them now going forward, as well. “ Cardinal Health would be one of the major employers in the Tullamore area, he added.
“What we’re hoping is going to happen at this stage is to work very closely with the IDA in order to have somebody to come and move into that facility very soon.
“So while we’re losing these jobs today, I would be hopeful that the IDA will be able to sell that land for another medical device company in the long term,” he said.
Laois/Offaly TD Charlie Flanagan said it was a “black day” for Tullamore. “My thoughts and solidarity are with the over 300 Cardinal Health workers and their families at this difficult time,” he said. “It’s a black day for Tullamore.
“I have spoken directly with the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke, who has assured me that the Government will do all it can to assist.
“I have spoken to some workers and pledged my active assistance. Relevant state agencies are on hand to provide advice and help. Much can happen between now and next March to soften the blow although it is a huge setback to economic and social life of Tullamore.
“Following the news, I have also been in touch with local Tullamore councillor Neil Feighery updating him on matters.
“The State will assist in the guidance for alternative jobs in the area and I pledge my full support at this time of challenge,” he added.
- Sign up for push alerts and have the best news, analysis and comment delivered directly to your phone
- Join The Irish Times on WhatsApp and stay up to date
- Listen to our Inside Politics podcast for the best political chat and analysis
