Company investments create 115 jobs

Some 115 jobs will be created at two companies expanding their operations in Ireland.

US-based firm Prometric revealed plans to double its workforce with a new headquarters in Dundalk, Co Louth.

The technology testing company, which will hire 100 staff over the next two years, already has more than 75 employees in the country.

Michael Brannick, president and chief executive of Prometric, said the firm was making a significant investment in people, software development and resources.

“Our decision to invest in Ireland allows us to expand our employee base globally, work in closer proximity to many of our customers and to provide test development services virtually around the clock,” he said.

“Over the past several years we have made considerable investments expanding in Asia with good result.

“Making additional investments in Europe makes just as good business sense, as we operate a growing and global company.”

Junior minister Fergus O’Dowd said the announcement was a vote of confidence in Ireland.

“The creation of 100 high quality jobs is hugely significant for the north-east region,” he said.

Meanwhile LANDesk Software will create 15 high quality jobs with the establishment of an international financial services centre in Dublin.

The new centre will manage international finance functions across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong.

Mark McBride, chief financial officer, said: “This new centre will become the primary financial operations hub in LANDesk’s international structure and will be responsible for up to 50% of worldwide revenue.”

IDA Ireland, the Irish government agency responsible for attracting investment to Ireland, is supporting both investments.

Elsewhere, Gift Voucher Shop, the Irish company behind the One4all multi-store gift card brand, has doubled staff numbers as part of its annual Christmas recruitment drive.

The Swords-based firm has hired 51 additional employees to service the increased demand for its products over the busy Christmas period.