Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2026
175. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment for an update on plans for a possible replacement industry pending the announced closure of a company (details supplied). [45344/26]
View answerIn October 2025, Merck announced the proposed closure of its facility in Arklow, Co. Wicklow. The company has informed IDA Ireland that the closure is scheduled to take place by the end of 2028.
IDA Ireland has established internal processes for dealing with potential and actual job loss situations with its client companies. This involves proactive engagement with site leadership of the company and its parent company to explore options to avoid and/or minimise any job losses.
IDA Ireland is engaged with the company both at a site level in Arklow and at their German headquarters in order to achieve the best outcome for the site, and will be exploring all options with the company.
IDA Ireland is also fully respectful of the consultation process that may be underway by any company and its employees/representatives following any announcement or proposed announcement.
In the event of any announced or pending job losses, IDA also partners with other support agencies at a local level to implement the Job Loss Protocol. It provides a coordinated response by relevant Government Departments and agencies at a local level to support impacted employees in the event of a significant job loss announcement.
In terms of potential replacement industry, IDA Ireland continues to actively promote the Mid-East Region, including Arklow, as a location for foreign direct investment. This includes marketing IDA-owned lands and buildings in the area, such as the IDA Arklow Business and Technology Park in Ballynattin, to prospective investors. These efforts focus on positioning the location for new investment, having regard to its regional connectivity, available workforce and existing industrial base.
