The planned closure of the Cartamundi plant in Waterford has been described as "devastating" for Waterford.
Speaking to WLR News, Waterford Minister of State Mary Butler said she was shocked to hear the news.
"This is a massive blow for staff and the general Waterford area," she said.
"I was shocked to hear the factory has deiced to end manufacturing at the end of August. The company has employed a huge amount of people over many years. I'm devastated for all the staff. The uncertainty they will face will be very difficult for them."
Waterford Senator John Cummins said: "I have asked that every resource of the state agencies will be deployed to assist all workers who have received this terrible news today, both to find alternative work and ensure Cartamundi Ireland lives up to its legal obligations."
He added: "It is very disappointing that the company has chosen this course of action and my thoughts are with all the workers and their families at what must be an exceptionally difficult time."
Independent Cllr Donal Barry described the news as "devastating" for Waterford.
"Many of the workers have very long service and the plant provided a lot of seasonal employment," he said.
"This is very bad news. It's devastating that one of Waterford's longest employers is shutting its doors in a few months time," he said.
"The loss of so many jobs will be a huge blow to the local economy. There will be a knock-on effect on the service providers associated with the plant."
He added: "Hopefully the IDA can step up and provide more industry for Waterford."
Cllr Barry says many workers on short-time working arrangements had believed their hours would be reinstated.
"Many of the workers did feel they would be going back to full time employment at the end of April," he said.
"This news has come as a shock to many of them."
Meanwhile, CEO of Waterford Chamber Gerald Hurley says supports will be provided to workers.
"After so much positive news lately, it's very disappointing. Cartmaundi has been an integral part of the business community in Waterford since 1977," he said.
“Seasonal layoffs are understandable and have been the norm due to the nature of their product but a final wind-down is devastating for their staff. We will offer every assistance to employees in sourcing alternative employment."
He continued: “We will also support Barry Morrissey, Managing Director, and the management team, during this difficult time. We understand redundancy packages are currently being discussed and we hope a satisfactory outcome can be reached by all concerned.”
Mayor of Waterford City & County Council Cllr John O'Leary said his thoughts are with the company’s 234 employees and their families as they come to terms with the news.
"Unfortunately, despite us being a year out of Covid, the ramifications of the pandemic are still being evidenced here today," he said.
"Waterford City and County Council will be in contact with Cartamundi’s Management team to offer what support it can and will endeavour to work with various state agencies to mitigate the impact of job losses on the staff and to the local and regional economy."
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