The Labour Party has described the loss of 50 jobs in the Eastman Chemical Plant in Co Waterford as a "cruel development" for the families of those made redundant.
The plant in Grannagh, Co Waterford, is to close next year following Eastman's announcement today that it was necessary to improve profitability.
Labour's Mr Brian O'Shea, called on the Tánaiste, Ms Harney, to intervene in the interests of those who will lose their jobs.
"Yet again company management has cited the need to cut prices and increase profitability as the reasons behind the redundancies," said Mr O'Shea.
"Whilst discussions with trade union representatives continue over the job losses, I urge the Tanaiste to intervene immediately to save the 50 jobs that are to go.
The plant was formerly run by Lawton International but was acquired by Eastman four years ago.
It will be the second major closure in the area in a month following the announcement by Michell (Ireland) of the closure of its Portlaw plant.