'Unexpected and significant blow': Union calls for intervention following Viatris closure news

Siptu has described as “shocking” the decision by pharma firm Viatris to wind down its Little Island facility, which employs around 200 people, calling on Government to intervene to save the plant.

The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment confirmed it had received a collective redundancy notification from Viatris.

A Viatris spokesperson told The Echo that a thorough assessment of the site “unfortunately concluded it was no longer viable due to challenging market and site dynamics”.

The spokesperson said

there will be no immediate reductions: “It is anticipated that the majority of the workforce will remain employed until early 2028 as the company winds down operations over the next several years.

“Viatris remains committed to treating those impacted fairly and with respect.”

Unions

The spokesperson said the company will work with unions on a plan, including comprehensive redundancy packages.

Cork Chamber public affairs director Cathal McSweeney said: “The job losses announced at Viatris present a challenging situation for all involved, and we empathise with those affected by this unfortunate situation.”

Mr McSweeney said Cork has experienced significant business growth and investment in the pharma and life science sectors, and the demand for skilled employees remains high, so they would be optimistic that those affected will find new jobs.

Siptu representatives have requested an urgent meeting with the company management, with organiser Ciara McMahon-Flavin saying: “This announcement is a shocking development for our members, many of whom have provided decades of loyal service to the company at this plant.” She said Siptu is also calling for Government intervention in an attempt to save this plant and its jobs.

Tánaiste Micheál Martin said yesterday: “In situations like this, our first priority is the workers, we will galvanise all the State agencies to work to support them.”

Alternative employment

Mr Martin pointed out there have been good announcements in Cork recently in terms of new employments such as in Motorola, saying: “Hopefully within the broader Cork economy there will be capacity to secure alternative employment for the employees.”

Fianna Fáil TD in Cork North-Central, Pádraig O’Sullivan, said he was “deeply disappointed” at the news.

“The only silver lining from this situation is that workers have time to find alternative employment should they seek to do so,” he said.

“Nonetheless, this is an unexpected and significant blow to the employees and the local economy.”

He welcomed Siptu’s involvement and added: “I echo the Tánaiste’s comments this morning that the priority must be about the workers, and engagement is needed to work to source alternative employment for them.”

Concerning

Sinn Féin Cork North-Central TD Thomas Gould said: “This is extremely concerning for the workers and their families.

“There needs to be a skills audit to support these workers in finding alternative employment as a matter of urgency.

People Before Profit-Solidarity TD in Cork North Central, Mick Barry, said: “These jobs are being sacrificed on the altar of corporate greed.

“Viatris is not in any kind of financial trouble, and isn’t going to be any time soon.”