Waterford’s Garrett Advancing Motion Redundancy: A Canary in the Coal Mine for Ireland’s Tech Sector?
Thirty-six roles at Garrett Advancing Motion in Waterford are slated for voluntary redundancy by the first half of 2026 – a figure representing over 20% of the facility’s workforce. While presented as a strategic realignment to navigate a shifting market, this move signals a potentially broader trend of recalibration within Ireland’s advanced manufacturing and technology sectors, particularly those tied to the automotive industry’s electric vehicle transition. This isn’t simply a local issue; it’s a bellwether for the future of specialized engineering roles in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
The EV Transition and its Impact on Specialized Manufacturing
Garrett Advancing Motion specializes in “cutting-edge technology” focused on increasing energy efficiency and reducing emissions for turbo, hybrid, and electrified applications. The company’s core business, while adapting, is inherently linked to internal combustion engine (ICE) technology. As the automotive industry accelerates its shift towards fully electric vehicles (EVs), the demand for components and expertise traditionally associated with ICEs is inevitably declining. This voluntary redundancy plan isn’t necessarily a sign of Garrett’s failure, but a proactive response to a fundamental shift in market demand.
The challenge lies in the skills gap. While EV manufacturing creates new opportunities, these often require different skillsets. Retraining and upskilling the existing workforce is crucial, but not always feasible or sufficient. Ireland, heavily reliant on foreign direct investment (FDI) in sectors like pharmaceuticals and technology, is particularly vulnerable to these shifts if it doesn’t proactively invest in future-proof skills development. A recent report by SOLAS highlights the growing demand for skills in areas like data science, AI, and advanced manufacturing – areas that may not directly align with the expertise of long-serving employees at facilities like Garrett’s.
Beyond EVs: Geopolitical Factors and Supply Chain Resilience
The automotive industry isn’t solely driven by the EV transition. Geopolitical instability and the ongoing push for supply chain resilience are also playing significant roles. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains, leading companies to reassess their manufacturing locations and diversify their operations. Ireland, while offering a skilled workforce and a favorable tax environment, faces increasing competition from countries closer to key markets and with lower labor costs.
The Waterford Economy: A Local Perspective
The impact of these redundancies extends beyond Garrett’s employees. Waterford City has long relied on the company as a major employer, and the loss of 36 jobs will undoubtedly ripple through the local economy. Sinn Féin representatives, including Cllr Conor McGuinness and TD David Cullinane, have rightly called for transparency and engagement from Garrett, emphasizing the need to protect remaining employment. However, the situation underscores the importance of diversifying Waterford’s economic base and attracting investment in emerging sectors. Focusing on areas like renewable energy, biotechnology, and digital technologies could help mitigate the risks associated with over-reliance on a single industry.
The voluntary nature of the redundancy plan is a positive step, allowing employees to make informed decisions about their futures. However, it also suggests that Garrett anticipates a sustained period of reduced demand for certain skillsets. This highlights the need for proactive career counseling and support services for affected employees, helping them to identify and pursue alternative employment opportunities.
Looking Ahead: Skills, Investment, and Regional Development
The Garrett Advancing Motion situation isn’t an isolated incident. It’s a microcosm of the challenges facing advanced manufacturing hubs across Europe. Ireland must prioritize investment in education and training programs that align with the skills needs of the future economy. Furthermore, fostering a more supportive environment for entrepreneurship and innovation is crucial for creating new jobs and diversifying the economic landscape. Regional development strategies that focus on attracting investment to areas outside of Dublin are also essential for ensuring a more balanced and resilient economy.
The future of manufacturing in Ireland hinges on its ability to adapt, innovate, and invest in its people. The redundancies at Garrett Advancing Motion serve as a stark reminder that complacency is not an option. What steps will Ireland take to ensure it remains a competitive and attractive location for advanced manufacturing in the age of electric vehicles and global uncertainty? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
