Laois County Councillors have expressed their hope and desire that something can be done to replace the jobs at a factory that is soon to close.
Last month, US cheese giant Leprino Foods announced it is to cease manufacturing operations at its plant in Portlaoise by the second half of 2026.
Their state-of-the-art facility in Portlaoise, opened in 2021 in the National Enterprise Park at Junction 17, and is part of their European operations.
132 jobs are set to go at the plant and Leprino then intend to vacate the property.
At a meeting of the Portlaoise Municipal District, Councillors expressed their upset at this and also their desire to ensure the state of the art facility is not left idle.
Fianna Fail’s Catherine Fitzgerald expressed her worry for the workers at the financial situation they are now left in.
She said: “I was disappointed about the factory closing, at the loss of 132 jobs.
“The impact that has on people working their and on their families is very serious. We don’t have much industries in Portlaoise.
“The council CEO and management are trying everything possible to get a replacement industry. As representatives we will do everything we can to support them.
“I was talking to young families who got out mortgages. I am hopeful that the chief and management are successful in looking for a replacement.
“I wish them well in their endeavours. The IDA or Enterprise Ireland will have to help. We got very little from them. It’s a very serious situation.”
Fine Gael’s Paddy Buggy said he was hopeful that some other company may move in and provide jobs.
He said: “It was a huge disappointment for the town and for workers with mortgages and bills to pay.
“I am fairly confident that something can come. It’s an excellent facility, an excellent site, and an excellent location, nationally and internationally.
“I’m confident something will happen and we will do everything we can to support it.”
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