Brian Brennan (Wicklow-Wexford, Fine Gael)

I want to discuss the pending closure of the Merck site in Arklow, County Wicklow. This has come as a devastating blow to the 100 employees, their families and the people of south Wicklow. I am looking for assurances that the Government and IDA Ireland will leave no stone unturned in their search for a new operator for the site. When we consider that we have a highly skilled workforce and one of the largest and newest wastewater treatment plants in Europe, the location must be really attractive to any potential buyer. The workers must be fully supported by all Government agencies in the weeks and months ahead. Arklow has been devastated by closures over the decades, including IFI, Arklow Pottery and Inamed. Now more than ever, the staff in Merck, and the town of Arklow, need our help.

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