Irish Daily Mirror

600 jobs a shot in the arm for West

us medical tech company to set up new factory

- BY CILLIAN O’BRIEN

A US medical tech company is to create 600 jobs at a new factory in Ireland.

Edwards Lifescienc­es will invest around €80million in the facility due to be completed by 2020.

The project, based in Limerick or Clare, will make parts used to treat heart disease.

Edwards plans to hire 60 people this year at the Shannon Free Zone site in roles including production, engineerin­g and management.

Business Minister Heather Humphreys said: “This will provide even more opportunit­ies for local residents and communitie­s to grow and thrive. My department, through the IDA, is committed to supporting Edwards as it establishe­s operations in Ireland and as the company continues to develop its innovative heart valve technologi­es.”

The California firm’s Joe Nuzzolese said the talented workforce was a key aspect in choosing the new location. He said: “We look forward to becoming an integral

part of the community through engagement and philanthro­pic support, and providing educationa­l and profession­al opportunit­ies for employees. “We are excited to welcome these new associates into Edwards, with the shared goal of serving more patients around the world by delivering life-saving technologi­es.”

IDA Ireland chief Martin Shanahan added the company’s arrival further enhances Ireland’s reputation as a preferred location for companies in the lifescienc­es sector.

Last month, Jaguar Land Rover said it will open a centre in Shannon creating 150 jobs.

THE West of Ireland received a jobs boost after a US medical tech company announced it is to build a factory.

Edwards Lifescienc­es, which makes heart valves, will invest around €80million in the facility due to be completed by 2020.

The company will bring 60 jobs to the Shannon Free Zone in Co Clare first.

And around 600 posts will be based in Limerick or Clare once the site is built.

It is great to see continued foreign investment in Ireland, particular­ly in the regions.

This should send out the message that despite Brexit, Ireland is open for business.

 ??  ?? WELCOME SIGN Officlals at the announceme­nt of project yesterday
WELCOME SIGN Officlals at the announceme­nt of project yesterday

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