Trump's policies raise concern in Leitrim over Abbott jobs

Donald Trump’s surprise return to the White House with a landslide victory has already raised concerns in Leitrim, where the potential impact of his protectionist policies, such as tariffs and tax cuts, could affect local industries. Companies like Abbott, which employ hundreds of workers in Longford and Sligo, are at the center of these concerns.

Paddy O'Rourke, Chairman of Leitrim County Council, voiced his worries about the future of local businesses. “If Trump imposes tariffs, it would have a detrimental effect on industries here. These industries are crucial to our local economy, and it’s a worrying time,” he says. O'Rourke urges caution and hopes Trump’s promises won’t become reality. “We need to carefully consider how these changes might impact businesses that are vital to the region’s workforce and economic stability.”

One of the key issues at the heart of the concerns is Trump’s proposal to reduce the U.S. corporate tax rate to 15%. Ireland’s current corporate tax rate is 12.5%, which has been a major attraction for multinational companies, including Abbott.

O'Rourke believes the potential tax changes in the U.S. could challenge Ireland’s competitive position. “If the U.S. lowers its tax rate to 15%, it will directly compete with Ireland, and we could see companies like Abbott shift back to the U.S.,” he warns. 

Abbott’s operations in Ireland have been key to its success in the region, with 5,000 employees across 10 locations. Abbott’s Longford facility focuses on the production of nutritional products, while its Sligo site specializes in medical devices. Local employment provided by Abbott has allowed Leitrim and surrounding areas to benefit from significant job creation, with local workers employed in high-skilled, high-value positions. Any changes in U.S. policy that impact Abbott’s strategy could have a lasting effect on job security.

Sinn Féin TD Martin Kenny also shares concerns but points out that Ireland’s appeal to U.S. companies goes beyond tax incentives. “Many corporations are here for reasons beyond just tax rates,” Kenny says. “We’re an English-speaking country with a common law system, part of the European Union, and we have a highly skilled workforce.” While acknowledging the potential impact of tax cuts, Kenny believes that Ireland’s broader advantages will continue to attract multinational investment.

Local leaders also stress the importance of building a more resilient economy that doesn’t rely solely on multinational companies. “We can’t keep depending on foreign direct investment alone,” says Kenny. “We need to focus on strengthening the indigenous economy, especially in rural areas like Leitrim.” He emphasizes the need for local communities to grow and thrive without being overly reliant on external factors.

Kenny calls for greater investment in rural areas like Leitrim and Sligo, highlighting the importance of infrastructure, education, and housing in maintaining competitiveness. “People should be able to live and work in the communities they are from, without having to leave to find employment elsewhere. It’s about making sure we’re preparing for a future that’s more self-sustaining and resilient,” he concludes.