Ex Elan workers form new R&D company

Several ex-Elan workers have set up BioClin Research Labs, to provide a range of research and development programmes to the pharma, biotech, vetinary, medical and related sectors and industries.

The project has to date a total investment of €400,000 with equity support from Enterprise Ireland, and plans to grow employment from around 10 to in excess of 25 over a three-year period.

Mary Burke, managing director, commented that "The support of Enterprise Ireland at this early and critical stage was vital.

"Our aim is to become the preferred reserch & development partner for pharma and biotech.

"At present we have the largest FDA-audited and certified research lab focussing on contract bio research.'

"This is a major development for Athlone and the Midlands region, that has been hit by massive job losses in the TMT / ICT and pharma sector, especially Elan."