Becton Dickinson closure a devastating blow for Drogheda – O’Dowd

The loss of 170 jobs in Drogheda due to the closure of the Becton Dickinson (BD) site is a major blow to the local community, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Fergus O’Dowd, Fine Gael TD for Louth and East Meath, said “I am deeply concerned and disappointed that BD intend to discontinue manufacturing at their Drogheda site.

“No effort must be spared to aid staff in securing new employment.

“BD has operated out of Drogheda for over 60 years and has played a major role in supporting the local economy, so this is truly devastating news for the employees and their wider families, who have in many cases worked for this company for generations.

“Everything must be done to ensure that staff and their families get the support they need, whilst also seeking alternative employment and upskilling.

“It is now imperative that we do all we can to attract more investment to Drogheda in light of this announcement. Drogheda has the workforce and infrastructure to be a hub for industry and we have a 40-acre IDA site which is primed and ready to provide highly skilled employment.

“I have spoken directly with BD and I will remain in contact to ensure that appropriate redundancies are provided and that the company meet their statutory obligations, as they have promised.

“I have impressed upon the Minister for Enterprise, Peter Burke, to ensure that the Government provides the affected staff with whatever assistance is required at this difficult time and to work with the state agencies to ensure that engagement is maintained at the highest level, so all avenues are pursued to safeguard jobs, if there is any possibility to do so,” concluded Deputy O’Dowd.