SIPTU representatives have today called for an immediate Government intervention to protect the local economy in county Louth, following the announcement that Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD) intends to close its plant in Drogheda in 2026 with the loss of approximately 200 jobs.
SIPTU Manufacturing Divisional Organiser, Neil McGowan, said: “SIPTU representatives will immediately engage with the employer to attempt to save as many jobs as possible. BD has provided quality employment for decades in the county Louth area. The announcement of the plant’s proposed closure is a devastating blow to workers, their families and the wider community.
“All stakeholders, including the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke and the IDA must get around the table with us to work on how we can save or attract quality jobs for Drogheda and the surrounding area.”
He added: “SIPTU will not accept anything less than concentrated and swift Government intervention to ensure an IDA-backed manufacturing company remains in this area. We cannot allow a situation where the skills of our members in BD and the infrastructure that is in place already is allowed to go to the wall while the Government sits on its hands.”