Closure of Dulux plant in Cork described as ‘hammer blow’ to the northside 

THE decision by Dulux Paints Ireland to close its Cork plant has been described as as a “hammer blow” to the northside. 

The company has confirmed the loss of 45 jobs following the closure of its paint manufacturing plant and warehouse on the Commons Road.

In a statement provided by Dulux, the company said that the Cork site would require significant renovations and further investment to continue its service offering in the short-term, as well as the development of a new site for the long-term.

“We understand the impact this will have on our colleagues and know that [this] will be really difficult for everyone in our Cork plant, many of whom have worked at the site for more than 30 years,” said Managing Director of Dulux Paints Ireland, Seamus O’Donoghue.

“We have an outstanding team in Ireland, but as a global business we have an obligation to continually look at ways in which we can improve our processes, ensuring our products are produced more efficiently, while maintaining the highest standards of quality not just now but into the future.

“As a result, most of the site’s current volume would be manufactured in the UK where we have state-of-the-art technology alongside the capacity and expertise to ensure a consistent supply of high quality paint for the Irish market,” he added.

Company to meet with staff 

The company said that arrangements are being made to meet and consult with employee and union representatives in the coming weeks.

Following the closure, further investment will be proposed for the company’s non-manufacturing operations in Dublin.

Dulux’s parent company, AkzoNobel, further announced its intention to close two additional Dulux sites, located in the Netherlands and Zambia. 

Concerns 

Solidarity-People Before Profit councillor for the Cork city North West ward Brian McCarthy said that the closure of the Cork plant represents a “hammer blow” to the northside.

“There has been 140 years of manufacturing at this site,” he said.

“Many of the workers have worked here for more than 30 years.”

In a letter addressed to Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Independent councillor for Cork City North East Ken O’Flynn said that the loss of these 45 jobs will reverberate “far beyond” the individuals directly affected.

“It is crucial that we have mechanisms in place to assist the affected workers in identifying their skills and capabilities, and subsequently aligning these with potential employment opportunities,” he said.

“Reskilling initiatives should be a cornerstone of any plan to ensure that those impacted by the closure have the support needed to transition into new roles successfully.

“I implore you to take immediate and proactive action in addressing the challenges faced by the north side of Cork city,” he added.