SIPTU representatives have confirmed they are to meet Wyeth Nutrition management on Monday to discuss the company announcement yesterday that it plans to close its plant at Askeaton in Limerick by 2026.
The announcement by the company involves making the entire staff of 542 employees redundant - those employed in Research and Development as well as those involved in manufacturing.
The plant has had a presence in Askeaton since the mid 1970's, making baby infant formula for export to the Chinese market.
The company said a decline in demand for its products in China had forced it to rationalise and that it would be transferring the work of the Limerick facility to sites in China and Switzerland.
Lat night, SIPTU called for an urgent meeting with Nestle Wyeth Nutrition management.
SIPTU organiser Ciara McMahon Flavin said the announcement was horrendous news for the workers and their families and they want to ensure that a future is maintained for this longstanding and successful site.
SIPTU Sector organiser Neil McGowan said the plant had provided good employment in the area for decades and it was vital the decision was reversed and as many jobs as possible are maintained at the site.
The Unite trade Union, which represents administrative technical and craft grades at the plant, said workers were shocked the plant was facing closure.
Unite Regional co-ordinating officer Tom Fitzgerald said that management needs to engage immediately with unions to explore alternatives to the closure of the plant and minimise redundancies, while ensuring the best possible package of supports for any workers who lose their jobs.
