Japanese firms to create 150 jobs

More than 150 new jobs will be created by two Japanese firms expanding in Ireland, according to Taoiseach Brian Cowen.

Three other research and development investments were also announced by the Taoiseach, who is leading a Government Mission to the Asian country.

“The size of this trade mission, the diversity of industry sectors represented and the Irish companies taking part, all testify to the eagerness and commitment of Irish companies to develop deeper relationships with Japan, a key player in the world economy,” said Mr Cowen.

“It also signals Ireland’s intent to the international scientific community and knowledge-based industry that Ireland is very much open for business.”

Two of the investments, which are supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland, are expansions of existing Japanese Head Quarter operations in Ireland.

Gala, a leading online community company, will widen its European HQ in the Digital Hub with the creation of 50 jobs while Trend, a global leader in internet content security, will grow its Cork-based EMEA operations centre, recruiting 100 people over the next three years.

Elsewhere three research and development investments were also announced in automotive technology from Alps Electric, imaging techniques from Shimadzu, and a combined investment from Sony, Toshiba and IBM researching the Cell Broadband Engine.

Mr Cowen will today address an event hosted jointly by IDA and Enterprise Ireland to promote Irish – Japanese trade and research opportunities and will later deliver a keynote speech on R&D policy and opportunities in Ireland.