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EMPLOYEES AT MSD’s Wicklow operation have been told the company is to cease operations at the site by the end of 2015.
All 280 jobs at the facility will be lost.
Manufacturing activities will be phased out in 2014 but no staff reductions are expected until the end of next year.
In a statement, MSD said the decision comes as the firm reviews its worldwide manufacturing capabilities “that has resulted in sites being sold, closed or consolidated in all regions of the world”.
“Rathdrum has been a significant manufacturing site since 1961 and has a long history of operational excellence,” according to John Smith, site director. “The proposal to cease operations is not a reflection of the site’s performance or the highly skilled people working there. The proposed action is the result of MSD’s ongoing review of the global manufacturing capacities needed to support its growth, business goals, product portfolio and pipeline.”
Consultation between employee unions and management is expected to begin shortly. MSD said its staff will be treated with “dignity and respect”.
“[We] will provide appropriate support between now and the cessation of manufacturing activities at the site.”
As a result of the proposed closure, the company plans to relocate products manufactured in Rathdrum to MSD sites in Ballydine, count Tipperary and Singapore, as well as to third-party manufacturers.
The Department for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation along with IDA Ireland will now look for a buyer for the facility and MSD said it is committed to “seeking an alternate future for the site”.
The company’s operations in Carlow, Cork, Dublin and Tipperary are not impacted by today’s announcement.
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Well, he’s a great guy at what he does but, film is about developing and adopting to new genres and ideas… I think bill is not someone that can power that engine
Younger people are needed at the top. They will be delighted with the opportunity at half the price.
Yea but because Bill isn’t a film industry head he might take heed of more peoples opinions and ideas.
He is ok – but why give it to a guy who has a good job already – and to a degree part of the establismnet – — so much for ” young blood ”.
It seems to me that the definition of Legend in R.T.E. circles means those who won’t, don’t or can’t retire !
a good ol Blueshirt,
more jobs for the boys.
more of the ‘new politics’ of FG/Labour !!!!
Bill knows nothing about sport never mind the industry he know represents , he’s a institutionalized Rte placement. Ridiculous pick…
Well done Katie andSéamus though at least a couple of people on there might know what there talking about. Some ludicrous appointments though :’(
Fine gael looking after one of its own. Nothing changes.
Bill O’Herlihy, you’ve gotta be f**king kidding.
A blatant and shameless political for a high profile Fine Gael apparatchik. They’re not even attempting to dress it up as anything other than that. Which shows how much they do not give a shit about the optics. Be prepared to see Billo’s mug peering out at you from photos taken at more than a few international film festivals in the next couple of years while he’s putting on the green jersey – the one formally worn by John O’Donoghue.
You are so right. So depressing. More jobs for the boys. Will Ireland ever change?
Just wondering how many of these people would be willing to serve on the board free of charge.
Would you work free of charge? Nothing stopping you from volunteering your services free of charge.
I see Ireland’s begrudgers are out en-masse today.
It’s not about the salary – it’s about the expenses, and the jollies and the free flights and the international film festival, symposiums and any other euphemism you can think of to describe a taxpayer funded session – all in the name of promoting Irish Culture and industry. Much like an appointment to the board of Aerlingus would be regarded as a reward for long serving party member, this is of the same ilk. To accuse people of begrudgery for pointing that out belies your own persuasions.
Sorry, but I disagree. Bill OHerlihy is a distinguished broadcaster, broadcasting isn’t a million miles from film making, so why shouldn’t he be asked, and why shouldn’t he remunerated appropriately? I’ve served on 1 board – (as an expert), I was been remunerated, and no, I wouldn’t have taken on that position were there not remuneration. Why should I? I’m giving my time and my personally funded expertise and experience.
I volunteer to sit on the board for no salary !
That’s fine Michael, and that’s your choice. I just don’t like the idea that in order to be anything in the public service in Ireland you apparently have to do it for free, while those who work privately should be the real capitalists of the world.
I’m sorry, but we aren’t volunteers, we are professionals, and should be viewed in that light.
Sorry John but you can’t expect us to use your expertise and experience and graft that on to this example. You are not to the best of my knowledge a well know Fine Gael PR professional with a sideline in broadcasting. And there is a difference Between operating in the closed glasshouse of RTE and the international world of modern filmmaking. Many people involved un the film industry are bemused at this appointment. No one is having a go at you or your own contributions to boards. But it is fair to say that the system of state appointees has been open to abuse. This government was very vocal about such practices when in opposition. However it seems to have intensified if anything since they have come into power. You are making this about you and your circumstances. It is not.
Apologies from the fragmented nature if that last comment. Typing on a phone!
As any good Dictator knows it is very important to control the media and the judiciary so Enda is doing very nicely thank you. Fine Gael now control most national print media, RTE, most national radio stations and Bill can make sure we watch the “right” movies
No doubt the Fine Gael defenders will be on shortly to tell us how he is the best candidate and that this is appropriate . Where is David Higgins ? Normally he would have posted by now to defend the indefensible
Okey dokey now Maurice, would it be fair to say that was a good movie!!
Okey Dokey…. Good call, few people on irish tv are as universally liked as Bill.
Which universe are you living in?
Few people on the journal as universally disliked as Andy
Oh no, online people might not like me… do i care? No.
jobs for the lads if u ask me.
Young blood!!!!
Is Anne Doyle a member of FG, surely she is due for a plum position since she retired ?
All pals of Jimmy’s I presume ? Why are these positions not advertised and open to the public to apply for??
Because “canvassing will disqualify ” ….l.o.l.
How old is Bill now?
He was a great anchorman with Dunphy and Giles.
According to wiki & google he is 74 Bill O’Herlihy (born 26 September 1938)
New Film Board classification just announced; PG, 12, 15, 18…. and Okey Doke.
Even better he’s from cork,top man..
Joe,some sad dudes who do not like class!
Oh right, Bill! that big hollywood hustler himself…wha?
Jobs for the boys. My God, when is this all going to end? Look at Gaybo! Lyric FM, Temple Street, Road Safety, RTE TV, & so on. How many cushy numbers has he under his belt? Isn’t it any wonder there is severe unemployment on this island of ours when RTE and the likes have cosy cartels running right in front of our noses!
It’s immoral Bill to accept this position at your age and in your position. Young people are committing suicide because of the hopelessness felt today for their futures. Gaybo, Bill, and the rest of old RTE staff who are beyond retirement age should look at their greed and think about others for once. As for the people who give these jobs to people – they also need to reflect on their values.
Is this a joke ?Please tell me there is no salary with this job . Bill is well known for being tight . Young blood please .
Bill lobbies for the tobacco industry. Disgusting.
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