A big boost.
Major US healthcare company Abbot Laboratories is set to significantly expand its operations with the creation of 1,000 new jobs in two Irish counties.
Kilkenny and Donegal are in the frame as part of an overall €440 million investment, with a brand new greenfield manufacturing plant set for the former and a general expansion of an existing facility for the latter.
The company has a history in Ireland, having operated here for over 75 years. Currently, 5,000 people are employed by Abbot throughout the country.
Subject to planning permission, the Kilkenny facility will span 250,000 square feet and will be located at the IDA Business and Technology Park in Loughboy. It is expected to open its doors in 2024.
New recruitment will come in the form of engineering, quality control, medical device manufacturing and additional science-focused departments.
Abbot has a particular focus on diabetes care, having developed the Freestyle Libre 3 glucose monitor, which enables people to check their glucose levels in a less invasive manner than the established finger-prick method.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin welcomed the investment on Friday morning, stating:
"Great news that Abbott is investing in a 1,000 new jobs in Kilkenny and Donegal," he said.
"Expansion a big vote of confidence in Ireland’s workforce, and as a place to invest."
Tánaiste Leo Varadkar also hailed the announcement, noting that it reflects an overall vision to create and support employment across all parts of the country.
"Some wonderful news when it comes to jobs and investment today," Varadkar said.
"Abbot, the US-based life sciences company, is announced a further €440 million investment in Ireland. That means the creation of 1,000 jobs, a whole new facility being created in Kilkenny city and the expansion of their existing one in Donegal.
"When I became Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, I set the target of ensuring there were 2.5 million people working in Ireland; more than ever before. We've achieved that target but crucially I wanted to make sure there were jobs and investment in all parts of the country, not just the big cities."
https://twitter.com/LeoVaradkar/status/1557971784653225985
