The Tanaiste has confirmed that the government will engage with Aptar in Ballinasloe to try and prevent the loss of all 115 jobs at the factory.
Leo Varadkar made the comments in the Dail after Roscommon-Galway TD Claire Kerrane asked what supports can be put in place for workers who may be facing unemployment later this year.
The company has confirmed to Shannonside FM that "due to competitive market conditions" it is examining cost-saving measures, and especially in relation to manufacturing and the possible loss of 115 jobs in the east Galway town.
The new Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment is hopeful supports can be put in place to help the workers find alternative employment:
The company has issued the following statement:
The Aptar Group advised staff at its Ballinasloe site on Thursday 25th of June 2020 that, due to competitive market conditions that have necessitated strategic cost savings across its operations, in particular its manufacturing facilities, Aptar is considering a proposal to cease its production at the Ballinasloe site affecting 115 employees.
We have been analyzing the changing market conditions and the obstacles which create competitive challenges for us. In addition, we have been evaluating our network structure, including our manufacturing footprint and processes, to ensure that our resources are being utilised in the most cost efficient and time effective way possible.
This proposal presents a very tough decision for Aptar and we understand the impact of this announcement on our employees and the local community.
We are committed to treating all our employees fairly and giving them every opportunity and support available to help them find a new job corresponding to the skills they have developed, in particular with Aptar. We will be consulting with impacted staff over the course of the coming weeks and we are committed to making every effort to try and mitigate the impact of the proposal on our employees as much as possible.
