Ireland still attracting investment despite downturn, claims Coughlan

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise Mary Coughlan said today there is a "good flow" of investment into Ireland despite the challenging economic climate.

Coughlan was speaking at the launch of the IDA's annual report, which shows foreign direct investment increased by 14% in 2008, with 130 new investments supported during the year.

So far this year, companies like HP, IBM, Boston Scientific and Big Fish Games have announced investments totalling more than €130m which will create 750 jobs.

Major boosts for the country last year included a €220m investment by Coca Cola in Wexford and Facebook's decision to locate its international HQ in Dublin.