Two US biopharmaceutical companies have announced plans to create a combined 200 plus jobs in Athlone.
Monday (February 3 ) will see the beginning of construction of the new Jazz Pharmaceuticals €25m manufacturing and development facility in Monksland with the creation of over 100 construction jobs during the 18-month building process. After which some 50 high-skilled positions will be created.
Taoiseach Enda Kenny and IDA chief executive Barry O’Leary will join CEO of Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc, Bruce Cozadd will be in Monksland to mark commencement of construction of the major new facility.
Meanwhile last Monday, February 3, saw the announcement of 40 more jobs for Monksland.
The jobs are due to be created by Alexion Pharma Ireland Trading, a subsidiary of Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc at their new vialling facility in Monksland.
There are reports that the US biopharmaceutical company will invest some €20m in their Athlone site, which was formerly owned by Elan, and then Alkermes, before Alexion took over.
The closing of the acquisition is expected to occur during the first quarter of 2014. Alexion expects to invest to purchase, fit, and improve the facility for its operations. The investment is supported by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation through IDA Ireland.
In July last year, Alexion announced plans to expand its global presence with the opening of a new office and laboratory facility in Dublin in conjunction with the company’s decision to establish a global supply chain facility in Ireland. The acquisition of the facility in Athlone is part of the plan to establish global supply chain operations in Ireland.
Local TD Nicky McFadden has welcomed the news that 40 jobs will be created in Athlone at Alexion Pharmaceuticals.
“The creation of 40 new jobs in the area is really positive news and a vote of confidence in Athlone as a location for business,” Deputy McFadden said.
“Pharmaceuticals play a significant part in jobs and growth for Ireland and Athlone has always stood out as an attractive location for companies. This jobs news is very encouraging and I hope that we can see further announcements like this for the area in the future,” she added.
