Pfizer Announces Over 100 Job Cuts at Ringaskiddy Plant in Cork

Pharmaceutical giant Pfizer has confirmed plans to cut more than 100 jobs at its Ringaskiddy facility in County Cork, affecting approximately 12% of the site’s workforce. The job losses, which will grab the form of redundancies, are set to occur in the final quarter of 2026, with the first reductions coming into effect on September 26 and the last on November 26.

The company stated that the decision was made due to an anticipated reduction in volume requirements and changes to small molecule operations at the site. Pfizer emphasized that it continuously evaluates its manufacturing network to align capacity with patient needs, projected product demand, and long-term business objectives.

According to multiple Irish news outlets, including the Irish Examiner, RTÉ, Echo Live, and C103, a total of 102 job losses are planned. These cuts will impact employees supporting manufacturing operations at the 80-acre site, which employs over 800 staff across four operating plants.

Pfizer reiterated its commitment to Ireland, noting that it maintains approximately 4,500 colleagues across four locations in the country. The company highlighted its long-standing presence in Ringaskiddy, where it has operated since 1969 and has invested over $10 billion in its Irish operations.

In a statement, a Pfizer spokesperson said the reductions would be carried out with transparency, respect, and in full compliance with applicable laws. The company added that it is actively engaging with employees and their representatives to minimize the impact of the changes.

Local representatives, including Séamus McGrath, Fianna Fáil TD for Cork South Central, expressed concern for the affected workers, acknowledging the significance of the announcement for the regional workforce.

While Pfizer did not confirm whether the redundancies would be compulsory or voluntary, it confirmed that discussions with staff would begin shortly after the announcement. The job cuts represent one of the most significant workforce adjustments at the Ringaskiddy site in recent years.