Alkermes job cuts a major blow to Athlone – Troy

Westmeath Fianna Fáil TD Robert Troy has expressed his shock and disappointment at the news that pharmaceutical company Alkermes is to cut up to 130 jobs at its plant in Athlone.

“This plant, formerly part of Elan, has been a much-valued employer in Athlone for more than four decades.  The news of such significant job cuts over the next two years has come as a major blow not just to the workers at the plant, but to the entire town and the Midlands region,” said Deputy Troy.

“My thoughts are with the staff and their families at this extremely distressing time. According to the company, the redundancies are likely to be a combination of voluntary and compulsory.  Every effort must be made to support those who lose their jobs and help them find alternative employment.

“This plant is a key employer in Athlone and has been in operation since the 1970’s. I am urging the Minister for Jobs and Enterprise Richard Bruton to engage with management at the company to ensure that Alkermes has a strong and secure future in Athlone,” said Deputy Troy.