Cigarette-maker announces closure of Louth factory

PJ Carroll and company limited have announced the closure of the company’s manufacturing plant in Dundalk, Co Louth, with a loss of 66 jobs.

Ms Gemma Webb, general manager of PJ Carroll, said: "Production at Dundalk has been in decline for some time and the factory is currently operating at only 45% of its capacity.

"The management of the company are of the view that the operation will not remain viable for the future.

"We have initiated this consultation process so we can clearly communicate our views on this issue to our employees and their representatives."

The firm has initiated a process of consultation with Trade Unions and other employee representatives with regard to the closure.

The consultation process does not impact the P J Carroll, sales, marketing and distribution operations which are based in Sandyford, Co Dublin.