There have been calls for government agencies to create a taskforce to protect jobs in Ballinasloe in light of potential job losses at Aptar.
The future of up to 115 jobs in Ballinasloe is uncertain as Aptar is currently considering halting production at its factory there.
Aptar has been based at the IDA Business Park in Creagh for the past 20 years, where it makes dispensing systems for various markets including fragrance and beauty.
Multiple elected officials in the area have called for new Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar to bring together state agencies and local authorities to protect employment in the area.
Aptar has said that it is in the process of beginning discussions with employee representatives about the future of the site.
Galway-Roscommon TD Denis Naughten and Senator Aisling Dolan have both called for a multi-agency response to the threat of job losses in Ballinasloe.
Senator Dolan said that employers like Aptar are needed to “ensure local communities remain viable” in Ballinasloe.
“I’m calling on the government to set up a taskforce involving agencies such as IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, Local Enterprise Offices and business groups to find a way to secure jobs for Ballinasloe.
“We cannot let another employer leave the area without providing security for staff and their families.”
Deputy Naughten said that the review by Aptar and the ongoing uncertainty surrounding it is causing “huge anxiety”, not only for the factory’s employees, but for local suppliers as well.
“What is hugely frustrating is the fact that Ballinasloe always seems to be just one positive decision away from unlocking its full potential,” Naughten said.
“I very much doubt there is a town in Ireland with infrastructure on a par with Ballinasloe and a focused review of the town by all the State agencies over a very tight time period could yield new employment opportunities as well as securing the existing jobs.”
