Kanturk faces a challenging period following the announcement that North Cork Creameries will cease milk processing at its local plant, resulting in the loss of nearly 100 jobs. The plant, a long-standing employer in the area, will maintain its identity but will no longer operate its own processing facilities, effectively becoming a milk pool.
A new ten-year agreement with Carbery Group has been finalised, under which approximately 100 million litres of milk will be processed annually. While suppliers are expected to receive a milk price slightly below Carbery’s current rate, final details are yet to be confirmed.
The closure follows the forced shutdown of the plant’s wastewater treatment facility by the Environmental Protection Agency last month.
Local representatives have emphasised that support for affected employees will be a priority. The Department of Social Protection is available to provide guidance, and employees are advised to visit their local Intreo Centres in Newmarket or Mallow for information on income supports, alternative employment opportunities, or training and development programmes.
Cork North West TD John Paul O’Shea noted that his office will remain accessible to assist those impacted during this transition. Councillor Bernard Moynihan also called for all options to be explored, including potential collaboration with other co-operatives, stressing the expertise available within the national dairy sector.
A meeting with suppliers is scheduled to take place at the Glen Theatre in Banteer on Thursday, March 5, providing an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss the future of milk processing in the region.
While the closure represents a significant setback for workers, their families, and the wider Kanturk community, local leaders are committed to ensuring that support and alternatives are explored to mitigate the impact.