The Minister for Enterprise must immediately clarify whether he has any knowledge of any potential job losses at Intel’s Leixlip plant, according to Social Democrats TD Aidan Farrelly.
Deputy Farrelly, who represents the Kildare North constituency, said:
“Reports that Intel will be cutting 20% of its workforce are hugely concerning for its thousands of staff in Leixlip, where the company has had a longstanding presence.
“I have today written to Enterprise Minister Peter Burke seeking clarification on whether he has been in touch with Intel about these reports – or any other contact he has had with the company.
“The Minister should also make clear that State supports for workers, should they be required, will be available and in place immediately.
“When a mammoth multinational announces radical measures such as these, it’s easy for some to forget that behind the numbers are real people – it’s for this reason that clarity must immediately be sought from Intel on whether its Kildare operation will be scaled back.
“Intel has invested significantly in Leixlip, where it employs almost 5,000 people – those workers and their families deserve to know its plans for the future.
“Despite the grim headlines today, there is reason for optimism in Leixlip given the huge investment Intel has made in its plant and the high-tech manufacturing that takes place there.
“The company must now clarify its plans at the earliest possible opportunity – and the government must be ready to step in and provide supports if needed.”
23rd April, 2025