Allergan to create 200 new jobs at Mayo plant

Allergan Pharmaceuticals Ireland has announced a $350m (€275m) investment at its Mayo plant which will create 200 new jobs over the next four years as well as 250 construction jobs.

Allergan currently employs over 800 people at its Westport plant where it manufactures and develops a range of pharmaceuticals including ophthalmology products and Botox.

"This investment will enable Allergan to expand the manufacturing capacity for Botoxand to develop a manufacturing base for the next generation of biologic products currently in the Allergan pipeline," a statement said.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny described the jobs boost as a significant vote of confidence as he attended Allergan’s Westport facility for the announcement.

“Developments like this will help us on the path to economic recovery,” he said.

Mr Kenny added: “Allergan’s Westport facility is an important strategic site in their network and contributes more than 50% of global revenues from a range of products manufactured here.

“The expansion of this facility is a much needed boost for the region and will bring further high quality jobs to the west of Ireland.”

Allergan have purchased the technology park next to its Westport facility to allow for the expansion.

Pat O’Donnell, Allergan Pharmaceuticals Ireland managing director, said: “Based on Allergan’s present strategic plans, we anticipate that demand for Botox will continue to grow.”

IDA CEO Barry O’Leary said the decision was "excellent news".

"The company has a long history with Ireland and the IDA, and the announcement of 200 new jobs along with a $350m investment further embeds Allergan’s presence in here," Mr O'Leary said.

Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Michael Ring said it was a "fantastic boost for Westport and Mayo".

“Allergan is an excellent employer in Westport, with a loyal and experienced workforce," the local TD said.

"The news of this expansion project in these difficult economic times is extremely welcome."

The latest announcement follows the news this morning that management consultancy Accenture is to create 100 technology jobs over the next 12 months.

Accenture is to hire 100 graduates and experienced specialists as it expands operations helping clients cut costs, increase efficiencies and support growth nationwide.

Mark Ryan, country managing director, Accenture in Ireland, said clients are looking to the company to reduce their costs and improve efficiencies.

“We offer unparalleled opportunities in an environment that supports the professional growth of our employees and allows them to work on leading edge business and technology issues facing our clients,” he said.

“For these new positions, we are seeking highly motivated and talented individuals passionate about and skilled in technology.”

Accenture already employs more than 1,000 people in Ireland and provides management consultancy, technology services and outsourcing to the private and public sector including Microsoft, Kerry Group and the Revenue Commissioners.

New roles will be available for experts in Java, SAP, cloud computing, mobility and workplace collaboration technologies.

The latest jobs boost at the company is on top of the investment at the Accenture Analytics Innovation Centre, which opened in Dublin last year.