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MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – Viatris and WVU are working on a memorandum of understanding that would transfer control of the recently closed pharmaceutical production plant from Viatris in Morgantown to the university.
Viatris executive chairman Robert Coury released a statement on Wednesday explaining the move.
“Given the current landscape, when one thinks of new responsible stewards for the site, as well as its strategic location, potential future uses and the possibility of job creation opportunities in the short, medium and long Term for Morgantown and the surrounding area, we determined that continuing formal discussions at this time with WVU and its affiliates is the absolute next step to consider, ”said Coury. “This is especially true given that we remain and intend to remain a significant employer in Morgantown, including our world-class global center of excellence for research and development.”
Viatris, the new company resulting from a merger involving Mylan, announced the closure of the plant last December. It was closed on July 31 and about 1,500 people lost their jobs. Coury also said in Wednesday’s statement that the company was trying to find a buyer but was empty.
“We believe that the same industry and market dynamics that motivated our decision have not resulted in any such viable proposal being received to date,” said Coury.
Governor Jim Justice applauded the possible MOU in comments he made at Wednesday’s coronavirus press conference in the state capital. Justice said WVU will work with the state to try to bring one or more new companies to the plant.
“WVU will work with the Ministry of Economic Development and find potential companies to use this space,” Justice said.
Coury said a deal with WVU made sense given the long relationship Mylan co-founder Mike Puskar had with the university.
“I also know and have witnessed the love and respect (Puskar) for the University of West Virginia and the tremendous support he, Mylan and his staff have given to this critical and highly regarded institution over the years. years. With this in mind, it seems entirely appropriate that we continue discussions with the University and its affiliates as we continue to seek the best possible solution for the site outside of the Viatris network that is in the best interest of the community and of all its stakeholders. “said Coury.
Justice said it was a “great announcement” but acknowledged there was still work to be done.
“We still have a long way to go to turn this into a real job for these great employees who were doing such a great job,” Justice said. “We want them to have good, well-paying jobs and we will continue to try in every way possible to achieve them.”
US Senator Joe Manchin sounded optimistic in a statement from his office on Wednesday.
“I believe in my heart that no one would be more proud and delighted than Mike Puskar to see his beloved family and property Mylan join forces with the WVU family he so deeply cherished. The University of West Virginia has a proven track record of success in identifying economic development partnerships that benefit the entire Mountain State, ”said Manchin. “I have no doubts that this partnership will be no different and I hope WVU seizes this opportunity of a lifetime to create meaningful jobs for this skilled workforce. I look forward to supporting these efforts in any way I can.
First District Congressman David McKinley also applauded the move.
“This is a positive step forward. The University of West Virginia is a world-class institution, our state’s largest employer, and can have a profound influence on our state’s economy, ”McKinley said. “We will continue to work with all parties to ensure a positive outcome. I look forward to the next phase of discussions and opportunities.
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