SIPTU to engage with Pfizer to discuss proposed sale of Little Island facility

SIPTU representatives are to meet with the management of pharmaceutical company, Pfizer, to discuss its announcement today (Wednesday, 15th May) that it intends to sell it’s Active Primary Ingredients (API) site at Little Island, Co. Cork. SIPTU Pharmaceutical Chemical and Medical Devices Sector Organiser, Alan O’Leary, said: “The announcement by Pfizer that it intends to consolidate its manufacturing operations in Ireland, resulting in a commencement of a sale process for its facility in Little Island, has greatly concerned our members.”“There are 140 workers employed by Pfizer on the site.  The announcement has created a lot of uncertainty for the future among these workers, as the sale of such a large site is a complex and difficult proposition.”He added: “However, the workers employed in Little Island are of the highest calibre and the plant is a well-equipped and modern facility. SIPTU reached a significant reorganisation and rationalisation agreement with Pfizer recently in response to the loss of its patent exclusivity on the drug Lipitor. We understand that there is a period of time up to September of 2014 to engage with management on how to secure as many jobs as possible. Securing these quality jobs for our members is our paramount concern.”