Concerns around Waterford jobs and investment were raised at a recent meeting of Waterford City and County Council, as questions were asked about why major multinational companies are expanding operations outside the region.

Questions over Amgen closure and West Pharma expansion

Independent Councillor Donal Barry highlighted concerns following confirmation that Amgen is set to close its Waterford operation later this year, while West Pharmaceutical Services has chosen to expand at its Dublin site rather than locally.

Cllr. Barry said it was vital to understand the reasoning behind these decisions.

He questioned whether the council had engaged directly with both companies to determine why Dublin was chosen over Waterford and what factors influenced those decisions.

“I think establishing the reasons why these two major companies choose Dublin over Waterford is vitally important for our local economy here if we want to attract investment,” he said.

Council says engagement with companies ongoing

Responding to the concerns, Chief Executive of the local authority, Seán McKeown said the council maintains regular contact with major employers across the region.

He confirmed that meetings had taken place with West Pharmaceutical’s senior management, describing the engagement as positive.

“They raised some minor issues… in relation to access and public transport connectivity to their site. So we’ll address those,” he said.

Mr. McKeown added that decisions such as Amgen’s closure are often made at an international level and are not necessarily reflective of local conditions.

Staffing challenges highlighted

The Chief Executive also pointed to wider economic pressures impacting Waterford jobs and investment, particularly the challenge of recruiting skilled staff.

“There are difficulties at the moment in a full employment economy in getting staff… particularly at certain grades,” he said.

He noted that emigration among younger workers is contributing to skills shortages, which can affect the ability of companies to expand locally.

Waterford remains key regional hub

Despite the concerns raised, McKeown emphasised that Waterford continues to play a major role in attracting foreign direct investment.

He said more than half of the 85 IDA-supported companies in the southeast are based in Waterford, reflecting its position as the regional capital.

The council, he added, continues to work closely with the IDA to support existing employers and attract new investment into the area.

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