Fianna Fáil call for govt. response following MSD job losses

on 07/03/2013 11:31:38

Fianna Fáíl spokesman for jobs, Dara Calleary, has called on Minister Richard Bruton to make an 'urgent response' following the loss of 280 jobs at MSD's plant in Wicklow.

The pharamaceutical giant announced the cuts this morning.

Calleary said: "This is devastating news for the 280 workers and their families. MSD has been a major employer in Wicklow for decades and many of the staff members have invested years of hard work in this plant," said Deputy Calleary.

"I am calling for an immediate response from the Jobs Minister Richard Bruton. We need a guarantee that the State will do everything in its power to support the workers through this extremely difficult time, to seek a buyer for the plant in Rathdrum and to secure alternative employment for the staff.

"The Minister also needs to address the impact of this closure on the pharmaceutical sector in Ireland. Through the work of successive governments supported by State employment agencies, Ireland has gained a strong international reputation as a hub for the pharmaceutical sector.

"Companies like MSD have provided valuable employment for highly-skilled workers in technology, manufacturing and research & development. MSD's decision to radically down-scale its operation here is potentially a serious blow to the sector."

MSD's other plants in Ireland will not be affected by the closure of the Wicklow plant.