SIPTU representatives at North Cork Creameries have confirmed that their primary focus is ensuring job security and employment continuity following an announcement yesterday (2nd April 2026) that the Co-Op has reached a commercial agreement with the Carbery Group to process its shareholders’ milk.
Commenting on the development, SIPTU Industrial Organiser, Sharon Ryan, said: “Whilst we are cautiously optimistic regarding the announcement, our focus remains on ensuring the Kanturk-based facility remains viable and that the jobs of our members are secured into the future.
“The focus of our ongoing engagement with the management team is to ensure that we secure and maintain as many jobs as possible.”
While processing at the plant is continuing, SIPTU has emphasised the need for long-term stability for both the workforce and the wider North Cork region.
“We need to get to a position whereby the jobs of our members are secured with certainty,” Ryan added. “The local community must be assured that the business will be an ongoing and secure enterprise. Many families, local businesses, and our members in the local environs of North Cork rely on the continued operation of the Co-Op in Kanturk.”
SIPTU officials will continue to engage with management to monitor the implementation of the agreement and protect the interests of all staff involved.