Minister of Employment to be contacted over Laois factory closure job losses

Laois TDs have expressed their disappointment and shock over the planned closure of a large Portlaoise factory. 

Earlier today US cheese producer Leprino Foods announced their intention to close the plant at J17 National Enterprise Park, Portlaoise, where 132 people are currently employed. They plan to close the plant by mid 2026. 

Laois Fine Gael TD Willie Aird said he is contacting Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke in relation to the plant. 

It was built in 2020 and went into operation in 2021 producing mozzarella and string cheese for the European market. The operators say they intend to move the plant's production to sites in Northern Ireland and Wales. 

Deputy Aird was shocked that a state-of-the-art factory which he said was “only run-in” in terms of its operation should now be closing. 

He offered his commiserations to the workers and said he wanted assurances that the factory would be left with all the equipment necessary to produce dairy products. 

“This is new. This is a new factory. We need to get in there because we have the raw material, the milk,” said Dep Aird. 

“I am going to talk to the Minister on this immediately,” added Dep Aird. 

Independent Republican TD Brian Stanley said “the announcement of the closure of the Leprino cheese factory in Portlaoise, is a huge disappointment particularly for its 132 employees.”

“This plant provided hope that at last some large-scale manufacturing would happen in the Laois area, as such industry would be attractive,” he said. 

Dep Stanley described the withdrawal of Glanbia from the partnership at the plant two years ago as an ominous sign.

“I am calling on the IDA and Enterprise Ireland to once and for all start taking Co Laois serious in terms of Industry. The fact that the IDA only had two visits to Laois in the last year, is an appalling record,” he remarked. 

He said “Laois County Council (LCC) have done more than the two together in terms of jobs in Laois. It is now time for the IDA and Enterprise Ireland to re-double their efforts.”

Dep Sean Fleming also expressed his shock and disappointment at the news of the plant closure. 

Lerpino Foods said the decision follows a comprehensive evaluation of all possible options to improve the financial and operational performance of the Portlaoise site. 

“Despite considerable efforts, the level of sustainable improvement needed could not be achieved. Closing the site will help ensure that Leprino can remain competitive while optimising its manufacturing footprint to continue meeting the evolving needs of customers,” they stated. 

“We understand the impact this announcement will have on our colleagues, their families, and the local community,” said Chief Executive of Leprino Europe, Paul Vernon.  “We want to express our sincere gratitude to the talented team at Portlaoise. This decision does not lessen the value of their hard work or contributions,” he stated. 

Leprino said it will provide enhanced redundancy packages, career transition assistance, and regular updates to ensure transparency at every stage.

READ ALSO: US cheese producer tells workers they may have to look for other jobs

Production will be moved to other Leprino Europe facilities in Magheralin, Northern Ireland, and Llangefni, Wales.  

“In parallel to the above we will continue to explore opportunities for the site with any potentially interested third parties,” the company stated.