Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent)

I thank Senator Kennelly and Senator Collins for raising this important issue, which I am taking on behalf of the Minister, Deputy Burke.I congratulate Senator Shane Curley. I think it is his first time in the Chair. It may be the first of many. In the next Seanad he could be the Cathaoirleach.

I thank the Senators for raising this matter. Kostal Group is an independent family-owned company headquartered in Germany serving the automotive market. The group's main activities include the development and manufacture of technologically advanced electronic and electromechanical products. Its primary mandate is the manufacture of on-board chargers, OBCs, for the electric vehicle, EV, industry.

On 9 September 2025, staff at Kostal’s Abbeyfeale operation were informed of the transfer of Abbeyfeale’s OBC production to China, which will have a direct impact on employee numbers at the plant. Notwithstanding the loss of the OBC business to China, Kostal has outlined to IDA Ireland its intention to continue operations in Abbeyfeale for the foreseeable future. This includes plans for future investment in the Abbeyfeale facility.

My foremost concern, and that of the Government, is for the potentially impacted employees and their families during this difficult and uncertain time. Ireland has a robust suite of employment rights legislation in place to protect and support workers where collective redundancies are proposed by an employer. In collective redundancy situations, the Protection of Employment Act 1977 imposes certain legal obligations on employers. This includes a 30-day information and consultation process with employees’ representatives, and to notify the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment at least 30 days before the first redundancy takes effect.

I confirm that the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment has not received a collective redundancy notification from Kostal as of 4 p.m. yesterday. Furthermore, the Government provides a range of supports to any employees facing job losses and the Intreo service of the Department of Social Protection can assist with income supports and relevant employment and training opportunities where needed. Our enterprise agencies will also assist where possible in helping those impacted to find alternative employment. IDA Ireland is actively engaged with the company, including regular meetings with the Irish-based leadership team, and is keeping my Department informed.