Dell to create 50 R&D jobs

Computer technology company Dell yesterday announced the expansion of its Irish operations with the creation of an e-commerce centre in Dublin.

The newly established commerce services research and development centre will create a further 50 jobs in Dublin.

The company said that the team of software engineers will work in partnership with Dell’s other facilities to deliver new services and functionality to add to its online platform.

Speaking at the announcement which was also attended by Jobs Minster Richard Bruton, Dell’s chief information officer, Paul Walsh said that the move was part of the company’s ongoing evolution.

“The new commerce services R&D centre is central to our vision for the future. It will foster innovation and enhance the overall experience delivered to our customers.”

Dell, which employs 2,300 in Dublin, Cork and Limerick including its Europe, Middle East and Africa financial services headquarters based in the capital’s Cherrywood Business Park, said yesterday’s investment underlined its commitment to its Irish operations.

In 2009 Dell cut 1,900 jobs at its manufacturing plant in Limerick, which at one point employed 5,000, and moved its production process largely to Lodz in central Poland.

IDA chief executive, Martin Shanahan welcomed the announcement saying it is further proof of the country’s reputation as a location for research and development and its ability to satisfy the needs of technologically advanced companies.