SIPTU members employed in the Becton Dickinson manufacturing plant in Drogheda, County Louth, commenced a ‘work-to-rule’ industrial action today due to the failure of management to meaningfully engage with their Union concerning the threatened closure of the facility.

SIPTU Sector Organiser, Andrea Cleere said: “Since the announcement on 3rd July that this very profitable plant is to close fully by September 2026, SIPTU representatives have sought to work with management on alternatives that could maintain it in operation. We have provided management with every opportunity to consider options to protect our members’ jobs and reduce the impact that these redundancies will have on the workers, their families and the wider community.

“Our members have remained patient over the last number of months while seeking meaningful engagement with the management of this US-headquartered company which has been in Drogheda for more than 60 years. However, their patience has run out and they have voted to commence industrial action from today.”

She added: “SIPTU representatives remain available to engage in meaningful negotiations with management concerning the future of the plant.”