Waterford ABP Workers Face Deportation Amidst Job Cuts

Hundreds of workers at the ABP meat processing factory in Ferrybank, Ireland, are facing the threat of deportation following the announcement of potential redundancies. The situation is particularly precarious for many economic migrants from countries including Brazil, Poland, and Timor-Leste, who are employed on ‘Stamp 1’ work permits.

Job Losses and the Threat of Deportation

On February 12, 2026, ABP announced a consultation process regarding the possible closure of the deboning department at its Ferrybank plant, potentially impacting 230 jobs. Workers were asked to nominate representatives for consultation meetings by February 16, 2026, to discuss potential consolidation options. According to a letter from ABP, the company is responding to “market dynamics and supply chain pressures impacting the beef sector in Ireland and across the EU,” as well as increased competition and political reforms.

Many employees, having secured jobs and work permits while residing in their home countries, hold ‘Stamp 1’ permits. These permits tie their right to remain in Ireland directly to their employment status. Redundancy could lead to deportation within a month if a new position isn’t secured.

Worker Experiences

Luke, a Brazilian worker who wished to remain anonymous, has been employed at ABP for four years and is just one year away from qualifying for an Irish passport. He reports a significant reduction in working hours, from an initial 40 hours per week to a current 15-hour week, with a wage of €14 per hour. He likewise stated there is no redundancy compensation included in his contract.

Luke’s wife currently is unemployed. While some workers may be offered positions at other ABP facilities, it is anticipated that those without family dependents will be prioritized.

Navigating the Legal Landscape

Immigration specialist Ploy Norgate of Abbey Blue Legal advises affected workers to seek a Redundancy Notification Form, which could grant a six-month grace period to find new employment. However, she cautions that applications for this grace period may already be facing significant backlogs. Norgate also indicated that appeals to Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan are unlikely to be successful.

Industry-Wide Challenges

The potential job losses at ABP are not isolated. ABP recently closed a packaging facility in Linden, Northern Ireland, resulting in 338 job losses. Kepak, another major Irish beef processor, is currently reviewing operations at its Clonee deboning facility, potentially impacting up to 100 jobs. These cuts are attributed to a dwindling cattle herd in Ireland.

For workers like Luke, the prospect of building a life in Ireland is becoming increasingly uncertain.