Sun told us “The Cashel facility closure is being implemented as part of this plan to right size our company’s global manufacturing activities. We expect to cease operations at Cashel by end of current calendar year.
“As part of the unit’s closure process, we will move some laboratory roles to other facilities within Sun Pharma’s global operations’ network.”
The Indian drug firm first mooted winding up operations last September. At the time it said it needed to optimize its manufacturing network following its acquisition of Ranbaxy.
According to IDA Ireland - the Government agency that is responsible for industrial development in the country – the facility manufactures finished drug products.
Union response
Tony Kelly from Unite, the trade union that represents 70 of the 100 people currently employed at the Cashel site, described the news as a blow for the town and the region.
“Unite is very disappointed that Ranbaxy parent Sun Pharma has decided to close the Cashel plant having failed to find a buyer, especially as it is less than 12 months since the acquisition was made. “
Ranbaxy declined to comment when asked if it had sought a buyer for the facility.