200 jobs to go at Mayo healthcare plant

Some 200 jobs are to go at Baxter Healthcare in Co Mayo.

The company announced today it is seeking 150 voluntary redundancies over the next 12 months - while 50 temporary contracts will also not be renewed at its Castlebar plant.

Baxter employs 1,100 people at its manufacturing facilities in Castlebar and Swinford.

"The reduction in jobs is driven by the global economic downturn, the subsequent impact of European healthcare cost-savings measures and the ongoing need to improve our cost competitiveness, the company said in a statement.

"While decisions like this are difficult to take, this is a necessary step to secure the long-term viability of the operation."

“The manufacturing sites in Mayo will continue to remain an important and integral part of the Baxter manufacturing network worldwide and we approach the future with confidence," said General Manager Pat Gallagher.

"Process and technology investments will continue so that we can provide enhanced high value therapies to the patients we serve for many years to come”.