DUNDALK’S FREE NEWSPAPER Arrest in missing Giedre case Page 2
Young scientists ready for exhibition Page 8
End of the road for Patsy Kelly 5k race Page 8
Wednesday, 12th January, 2022. Vol. 15, Issue 2 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth
Job losses at National Pen a ‘hammer blow’
Tel: 042 9320888. Fax: 042 9329676. Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com
By Tamara O’Connell
The news that 100 jobs in National Pen are at risk due to a restructuring of the company has been met with disappointment and shock this week. Local TD Ruairi O’Murchú said the news was a ‘hammer blow’ for the workers in the local facility in Xerox Technology Park. National Pen opened its international headquarters in Dundalk almost 35 years ago in 1987 and over three decades grew to the point where it employed over 1000 employees by 2017, the year they celebrated being in Dundalk for thirty years. Now, according to statement from National Pen President and CEO Peter Kelly another 100
jobs are thought to be under threat as the company confirmed plans to conduct the fulfilment of European orders at the company’s facility in the Czech Republic from 2023. “National Pen has been digitally transforming our business from a value-based brand to a service-oriented brand. One of the key aspects of this transformation is to reduce turn-around times on our customer orders. The ongoing supply chain environment, coupled with a customer base that is increasingly shopping online has led to our efforts to invest in technology, ecommerce and supply chain capabilities to remain best in class in our industry. Continued on Page 2
Mud, sweat and gears for Johnny!
Cuchulainn Cycling Club member Johnny McCabe claimed the gold medal in the Masters 60 race after a close battle with Paul Birchall last weekend. Full story Page 11