IDA to build first factories in 30 years

The IDA is to start building factories for the first time in 30 years in an attempt to lure companies to Athlone and Waterford.

The two construction projects will create 160-180 jobs while the factories are being built.

IDA chief executive Barry O’Leary said the agency was funding the building as there was no available private capital to do so, despite a shortage of suitable developments across the country.