Job creation - We must get our cost base right

News that 200 jobs are to be created by expansion of the pharmaceutical giant Allergan, which already employs 900 people in Ireland, is to be warmly welcomed, especially in the midst of the current economic gloom.

The company is to invest a further €350 million in its plant at Westport, Co Mayo, where it manufactures Botox.

Plans are already drawn up to expand the manufacturing facilities. Around 250 people will be employed locally in the constructions phase, which is due to begin shortly.