Three companies set to create 215 jobs
The jobs will be created in two city-based companies and in Midleton.
Minister for Trade, Enterprise and Employment Micheál Martin said the IDA-supported investments by the three Cork-based companies were "a further endorsement of Cork's enviable reputation as a location for international companies".
Alcon Inc, a global leader in the ophthalmic pharmaceuticals and surgical devices industries, will invest up to E15.6 million in the expansion of its manufacturing facility at the IDA Ireland Business and Technology Park on the city's Model Farm Road.
The investment will make the facility the first site outside of the US to manufacture Alcon's leading surgical product, the AcrySof intraocular lens a prosthetic lens that replaces the eye's natural lens after cataract surgery. The company will create up to 140 jobs over the next five years, boosting its workforce to more than 220.
In Midleton, US-based Cascade Designs Inc, a manufacturer of recreational and medical products geared mostly at the outdoor pursuit and hill-walking market, is to expand its European headquarters and manufacturing activities.
It will add 45 jobs over four years to its Cork operation its only overseas facility.
The jobs will be in management, manufacturing, accounting and
administration. The Cork operation, which employs 85 people, was established in 1986 to manufacture self-inflating sleeping mattresses for the European market.
Siemens Business Services Ltd, a subsidiary of Siemens AG, is to establish a System Management Centre at its building at Penrose Quay, creating 30 jobs for highly skilled technicians and network specialists.
"These investments demonstrate a high level of satisfaction by the companies with their existing operations in Cork and a level of comfort that sees them making a further commitment to Ireland as part of their strategy for future success," Mr Martin said.
Despite jobs losses in Waterford last week, the minister said 2005 looks like being a good year on the employment front.
Another major jobs announcement from a new overseas investment is expected later today.
And while the Minister admitted the low end manufacturing sector was under pressure, he said Ireland still has a competitive edge in the niche high-end market.
