GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), the UK pharmaceutical giant, today announced the planned closure of Stiefel Laboratories in Sligo, with the loss of 250 jobs.

Stiefel has been in Sligo since 1975 and was acquired in July by GlaxoSmithkline.

The plant  produces a range of prescription and over-the-counter products for the treatment of skin disorders such as psoriasis and acne.

The company said that it is proposing to cease operations by the end of 2013. It says the decision is part of a global review of the Stiefel operation following its acquisition by GSK.

The work done in Sligo will be transferred to other company facilities where there is currently under-capacity.

The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Mary Coughlan T.D., has today expressed her deep disappointment at this morning's announcement from GlaxoSmithKline regarding its Sligo operation.


She has noted the long "run-down" with the company proposing to cease operations at the Stiefel facility -  - which was acquired by GlaxoSmithKline in 2009 - - by the end of 2013.

Coughlan said she would immediately engage with the IDA and other state agencies including Enterprise Ireland, FÁS and the local County Enterprise Board on behalf of the workers. She said she would do her utmost for the 250 employees affected who had a proud record of employment at the base in the Finisklin Industrial Estate.

The IDA is in discussion with the parent company regarding potential opportunities to develop the site in Sligo.

GSK employs about 1,500 people in Ireland and first established operations here in 1975.