Boston Scientific job cuts possible as redundancy notification issued to Government
It is one of Galway’s biggest employers producing millions of medical devices each year
Boston Scientific job cuts could be possible after a redundancy notification was issued to the Government by the medical device manufacturer.
Employing over 7,000 people across its Irish operations including here in Galway, the company’s board has approved a global restructure plan in the hope of cutting costs which could lead to potential job losses.
Boston Scientific has a long-established presence in Ireland spanning over 30 years, producing over 30 million devices each year for patients worldwide.
The Department of Enterprise confirmed that it received the notification last week but it is not known what department or how many roles are at risk across here, Cork and Clonmel.
The company told RTE the restructuring programme would "include enhancing operational and functional capabilities as well as global supply chain network optimisation".
The company said: "In general, we do not break out programme details by business, region or function.
"Ireland has been an important part of Boston Scientific's global organisation for more than 30 years. We are committed to our long-term future in the country and recognise the significant contributions our employees in Ireland make across our global business.”
Back in April, it was announced that Boston Scientific, one of the county’s biggest employers, was getting a €75 million investment in its Galway site.
The development, supported by IDA Ireland, includes purpose-built laboratories to enhance the ability of teams in Galway to design, develop and test next-generation medical technologies across a range of cardiovascular therapies.
The expanded capability will support priority programmes across structural heart, cardiovascular and endoscopy, as well as emerging areas such as heart failure and renal denervation technologies, underpinned by a strong regional talent base and STEM ecosystem.
Minister for Education and Youth, Hildegarde Naughton, was on hand for yesterday’s announcement – and she said it showed ‘real confidence in the talent and infrastructure available here’.
“The importance of R&D and innovation to Ireland’s economy cannot be overstated. It is achieved through a strong partnership between industry, Government and IDA Ireland and has acknowledged that Galway is now an internationally recognised MedTech hub,” she said.
“This is due in no small part to the presence of Boston Scientific, which continues to invest in capabilities that advance patient care, with Galway playing a key role in delivering that innovation,” she added.