Ray O’Connor looks at the reasons why 55,000 regional jobs were created by IDA-backed companies from 2015-19.

The long-held vision for Cork’s docklands as a thriving urban waterfront precinct has taken a major step forward after details of a landmark deal emerged.

Confirmation of the financial services firm Clearstream to over 70,000 sq ft, plus an optional extra of 20,000 sq ft more for 600 well-paid financial services jobs at Navigation Square on Cork city’s quays makes it one of the very largest-ever office deals in Cork city.