Twenty-six workers at the Becton Dickinson (BD) plant in Enniscorthy, County Wexford, have been laid off, sparking anger and shock among staff. The workers claim that they were told the previous day that job positions would be safe and that production training opportunities would arise, but instead they were informed the following day that their jobs would be terminated. There are concerns for the wellbeing of those affected, with many having mortgages and families to support. There are reports of female employees in tears as workers were asked to leave and clear their belongings immediately. The company, however, has stated that the lay-offs are temporary and that they are committed to treating those affected with respect and compassion. BD claims this is a difficult business decision that is not a reflection on the performance of the Enniscorthy plant, which the company intends to continue investing in. The plant currently employs 490 people, a net increase of 20 over the past five years.
