Coca Cola, Drogheda looking to shed jobs as it is evolving and that includes changing the way they work to increase our speed and agility and in order to provide next generation services, they are looking for opportunities to think innovatively which includes using third-party providers to provide managed services

In a statement the company said, “Coca-Cola is evolving as a total beverage company, and that includes changing the way we work to increase our speed and agility.

“The company’s Integrated Services organization provides a broad range of support services globally, including for finance, procurement, human resources and a number of other areas.

"As we move to provide the next generation of services, we’re looking for opportunities to think innovatively. This includes using third-party providers to provide managed services.”

Coca-Cola looks set to shed jobs at its integrated services operation based in Drogheda.

Staff who work for the soft drinks giant were being briefed on the decision on Thursday.

Around 200 people are employed at the location at Southgate just off the M1 in Co Louth.

Around 100 of them are in the division that will be effected and while the exact number of positions to be shed is not yet known, sources have said that not all of the roles will be impacted.

Coca-Cola has a number of operations in Ireland and makes concentrate at its plant in Ballina county Mayo.

The outsourcing will only effect Drogheda and some of the work may go to India, it is understood

Louth Fianna Fail deputy Declan Breathnach said, ‘this is deeply concerning, it is like the Sword of Damocles hanging over the work-force.’

‘I have been aware for a period of time that some of the workforce have been concerned about the future of their position in an uncertain climate. It is time for the company to give clarity to the workforce. Coca Cola has been good to drogheda and the region but we need greater clarity now,’ he added.

Fine Gael TD Fergus O'Dowd said that the potential loss of jobs at Coca-Cola in Drogheda is a serious cause for concern.

"Coca-Cola is a major employer here in Drogheda, employing approximately 200 people.

"I am very disappointed to hear that there could be a potential loss of jobs. At this time the extent of the job losses is unclear. According to the company this decision is on foot of global restructuring.

"It is essential that any employee who becomes unemployed is fully supported by the state and that every effort will be made to help them re-enter the workforce as quickly as possible and to assist their transition at this very difficult time.

"My thoughts are with the affected employees and their families at this difficult time."