Steris to buy Cardinal Health site in Tullamore

Staff at the Cardinal Health facility in Tullamore were informed today that medical sterilisation company Steris is set to purchase the premises, as the plant’s previously announced closure moves into its final phase.

Workers had been notified last year that the long-established operation would wind down, with production now nearing its conclusion. Today’s development relates to the future ownership of the site rather than any change to the closure timeline, according to Offaly TD, Tony McCormack.

Deputy McCormack said the purchase by Steris ensures the facility will continue to play an important role in Tullamore’s industrial landscape.

“This is an important development for Tullamore and for Offaly. While the closure of Cardinal Health was confirmed last year, the fact that Steris is now purchasing the site means it will remain in productive industrial use,” he said.

Deputy McCormack credited Steris for its continued commitment to the town and wider region.

“Steris already has an established presence in Tullamore, and this decision to expand its footprint is a strong vote of confidence in the local workforce, infrastructure and the Midlands as a place to invest and grow.”

He also paid tribute to the long-standing contribution made by the company to the county.

“For decades, the facility was a major employer in Tullamore. It provided stable jobs and supported generations of families, while making a significant contribution to the economic and social life of Offaly.”

Steris operates in Tullamore through its existing facility in the IDA Business and Technology Park, providing sterilisation and related services to the medical device and pharmaceutical sectors. The purchase of the former Cardinal Health premises is expected to further strengthen the town’s position as a hub for med-tech and life sciences activity.

Deputy McCormack also highlighted the recent acquisition of approximately 65 acres of land in Tullamore by IDA Ireland as another positive development for the county’s future.

“That strategic investment will help ensure Offaly is well placed to attract new employers in the years ahead and continue building on its strong manufacturing base,” he said.

The purchase was also welcomed by Independent TD for Offaly, Carol Nolan, who said it was "vital that the site remained in active industrial use to further strengthen Tullamore as a hub for med-tech and life sciences in the Midlands".

Deputy Nolan said she had consistently championed the future of the Tullamore site since Cardinal Health’s closure announcement.

“When the closure was announced the entire town of Tullamore was shocked. I was adamant that this issue would not be allowed to drop off the political radar.

"That is why I met with senior IDA representatives and why I submitted another parliamentary question demanding updates on the future of the site and support for workers and the local economy.

“I will continue to engage with the IDA and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment to ensure we secure the very best long-term outcome for the workers, their families and the wider Offaly community,” concluded Deputy Nolan.

The winding down of Cardinal Health marks the end of a significant chapter in Tullamore’s industrial history, with the purchase of the site by Steris pointing towards its continued role in supporting economic activity in the region.