'A black day for Tullamore': Political reaction to Cardinal Health closure

Politicians have been issuing statements in reaction to today's news that Cardinal Health in Tullamore will be closing, with the loss of 300 jobs, by March 2026.

Here are some of the comments they've issued in response to the local jobs blow.

Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment

"My primary concern is for the staff and their families who are now coming to terms with the impact of this announcement. This industry has had a presence in Tullamore for over 40 years, well served by a loyal workforce and with considerable support from the IDA over the years.

"I have been engaging and will continue to engage with the company. Following this morning's Town Hall meeting with staff, and along with the IDA and my Department we will work with the company management and with staff on current and potential future possibilities. We will make every effort to identify alternative employment opportunities for the staff affected by this announcement.

"As a country we are at full employment, with strong demand for medtech and life sciences skills and we will work to help employees impacted to find alternative employment."

MEP Barry Cowen

"The closure of Cardinal's plant will have a profound impact on our local workforce, many of whom have dedicated years of service to the company. My immediate focus is on the employees and their families who are directly affected by this decision. I have been assured that an adequate redundancy package will be put in place to recognise their commitment and contribution over the years.

"I have stressed to the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke and the Minister of State for Trade Promotion Dara Calleary the need to immediately focus on attracting replacement industry to our area. It is imperative that we act swiftly to mitigate the impact of this closure on our region.

"I have asked that Ministers Burke and Calleary arrange to meet with local councillors, the Chamber of Commerce, and other relevant stakeholders as soon as possible. We need to assure our community that work on these critical issues is now a priority.

"The people of Offaly deserve to know that their representatives are working tirelessly to secure the economic future of our area. I will continue to advocate for the necessary resources and work with my colleagues Cllr Declan Harvey and Cllr Tony McCormack to ensure that our community emerges from this challenge stronger and more resilient."

Minister of State Pippa Hackett

"I am very concerned to learn about the Cardinal Health announcement today. My thoughts are with staff, their families and the wider community who are impacted.

"I have spoken with the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke this morning, emphasising that it is essential that job losses are replaced as soon as possible.

"He assures me that all relevant agencies are engaged to ensure that employees best interests are protected and to work with the company management and with staff on current and potential future opportunities.

"Workers and their families have set down roots in the Tullamore area, and they significantly enhance the economy, and our community. So, while there may well be a strong cohort of indigenous firms in the MedTech sector, it is imperative that government works to ensure these jobs are replaced in the locality of where they have been lost."

Cllr Neil Feighery

"The news reaching us in Tullamore this morning is a massive blow to the town. I have spoken with a number of workers and their families and my heart goes out to them. Cardinal Health has a long history in Tullamore and has a very good reputation with many people working on the site for decades.

"Every effort must be made to ensure that a good package is provided to the staff by the company.

"I have spoken to my colleague, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke TD this morning and he has assured me that the full range of state supports will be made available to the staff and that he is monitoring the situation closely.

"It is vital that a local response is coordinated also, bringing together the local authority, the LOETB, and business groups and I have contacted the Chief Executive of Offaly County Council about this proposal.

"I am also calling on the Government and IDA to ensure that no time is wasted in finding a new employer for this key site in the IDA park."

Carol Nolan TD

"This is devastating news... My heart goes out to the workers and their families at what must be a truly unnerving time.

"Cardinal Health is a major employer. It will be the equivalent in relative terms to Leixlip losing Intel. Needless to say that would be a like a punch to the gut for Tullamore and indeed the Midlands more widely.

"Government needs to take action immediately to try and rescue whatever jobs can be rescued or supported."

Charlie Flanagan TD

"My thoughts and solidarity are with the over 300 Cardinal Health workers and their families at this difficult time. It's a black day for Tullamore.

"I have spoken directly with the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke, who has assured me that the Government will do all it can to assist.

"I have spoken to some workers and pledged my active assistance. Relevant state agencies are on hand to provide advice and help. Much can happen between now and next March to soften the blow although it is a huge setback to the economic and social life of Tullamore.

"The State will assist in the guidance for alternative jobs in the area & and I pledge my full support at this time of challenge."