Diageo to close Waterford brewery; 36 jobs lost

Diageo has announced that it is ceasing operations at its Waterford Brewery by the end of the year with the loss of all 36 jobs.

Following a review, it has been decided that the Waterford operations will be transferred to one site at St James' Gate in Dublin.

Supply chain director with Diageo Ireland Paul Armstrong told WLR that the move was being made "to ensure the long-term sustainability and global competitiveness of (its) brewing operations in Ireland".

"It's part of our strategic growth plan for Guinness," he added. "We announced an investment of €153m into the brewing facilities in Dublin one year ago.

"It's clear that we can and should produce the products (that are currently produced in Waterford), in Dublin."

Diageo said it was committed to supporting employees in exploring alternative employment.