Cholesterol drug demand helps 136 Pfizer workers keep jobs until year end

Increased demand in China and North America for an anti-cholesterol drug has thrown a lifeline to 136 Pfizer workers who will retain their jobs, at least until the end of this year.

The company had announced in 2013 plans to close the Little Island plant in Co Cork, advising employees at the site would be made redundant.

However, greater competitiveness and increased market demand for cholesterol-busting Lipitor and two new cancer drugs have helped to secure the Little Island jobs for the next 12 months.