More than 300 employees at a medical device factory in Co Offaly are to be made redundant as the company announced it would be closing the site.
Cardinal Health, based in Tullamore, has 315 employees and said it intended to close the plant by March 2026.
Enterprise Minister Peter Burke said the med-tech industry had had a presence in the town for more than 40 years and been “well served” by “a loyal workforce”.
Mr Burke said his main concern was for the staff and families who were affected by the announcement.
“I have been engaging and will continue to engage with the company,” he said.
“Following this morning’s town hall meeting with staff, and along with the IDA (Industrial Development Agency) and my department, we will work with the company management and with staff on current and potential future possibilities.
“We will make every effort to identify alternative employment opportunities for the staff affected by this announcement.”
He added: “As a country, we are at full employment, with strong demand for med-tech and life-sciences skills and we will work to help employees impacted to find alternative employment.”
Former minister and Laois-Offaly TD Charlie Flanagan said the news marked “a black day for Tullamore”.
“I have spoken to some workers and pledged my active assistance. Relevant state agencies are on hand to provide advice and help,” he said.
“Much can happen between now and (March 2026) to soften the blow, although it is a huge setback to the economic and social life of Tullamore.”
Fianna Fáil MEP Barry Cowen said the plant would be relocating two production lines to Mexico and Costa Rica.
“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.”
He added: “The people of Offaly deserve to know that their representatives are working tirelessly to secure the economic future of our area.”