After Nestlé announced the closure of Wyeth Nutrition’s Askeaton-based plant in October 2023, a councillor has expressed concerns for the workers affected and the long-term impact on the local economy.

The Wyeth Nutrition infant formula manufacturing facility has been a significant employer in the area for many years, employing 491 people at the time of phased closure.

The phased closure is due to cease in 2026, and as a result, many workers still face an “uncertain future,” according to Councillor Adam Teskey.

Cllr Teskey of the Adare-Rathkeale Municipal District is now seeking measures to address the issue and suggests the district call on the Minister for Enterprise to respond to the situation.

“There’s a lot of uncertainty in the area. People want to know what’s being done to support them. We don’t want this to drag on,” said Cllr Teskey.

The proposed letter to the Minister for Enterprise, Peter Burke TD, will outline several key concerns, including the need for more information about potential steps to support affected workers.

Despite the closure being announced over a year ago, many locals have shared their worries to Cllr Teskey about the steps the government is taking to address the issue.

For that reason, he is also seeking information about the possibility of new companies to take over the “state-of-the-art” plant.