Amgen announced that an updated review of its business plans, concurrent with an evolving business environment, the company has decided to postpone indefinitely its planned design and build-out of a bulk manufacturing facility in County Cork. Amgen expects to maintain ownership of the site property in cooperation with Irish authorities.

Amgen will cease all current activities on the site in cooperation with the Irish Government and its agencies, community groups and business participants. The decision will affect up to 79 staff, 65 of whom are based in Cork. All staff will be notified regarding the likelihood of redundancy. Amgen will work with staff during the consultation period to identify potential options elsewhere in the company. However, it is likely that the majority of people will be offered redundancy packages.

Based on current plans, Amgen will not have an active work site or work force in Cork in 2008. Ceasing current activity in Cork will not affect Amgen's ability to supply patients.

"We understand that this is a very disappointing development for our employees, the government, the neighbours around our site and the broader Cork community," said Mark Sawyer, general manager and vice president of operations, Amgen Technology Ireland. "This decision is based purely on developments relating to Amgen's global business and is in no way reflective of the business environment in Ireland or of the high calibre staff we have hired".

Sawyer continued, "We have been pleased with the responsive, pro-business approach of the Irish Government and its agencies and with the cooperation we have received from the entire community. We are committed to treating affected staff members in a manner that is as respectful as possible, and will fulfill any outstanding commitments to the IDA, Cork County council and the community".