Following an extensive review of the News Press Ireland Limited (NPIL) print business based at Kells, News UK & Ireland has regretfully concluded that it proposes to close the plant and outsource printing to other third party print sites in Ireland. This proposal is subject to consultation and the company will be engaging with the staff and Union as appropriate. This development will have no impact on the publication of News Ireland’s news brands.

A spokesperson for News UK & Ireland Ltd said: “News UK & Ireland Limited will continue to invest in our quality journalism and serving our readers. Although this was a difficult conclusion to reach, we believe it provides the most viable and sustainable long term solution for the printing business. We wish to thank the News Press Ireland staff in Kells for their continued cooperation and understanding, and we are committed to offering every possible support as we undertake the staff consultation process.”