US medical device business Edwards Lifesciences is to create an additional 250 jobs at its Limerick manufacturing site, bringing the total number employed there to 850.
The announcement coincides with the official opening on Friday of its operations in Castletroy in Limerick, where the company will make sophisticated heart valves. The US firm broke ground at the site in 2019, initially promising to create 600 jobs there.
"Our announcement illustrates the continued growth of our company globally and demonstrates our confidence to the midwest of Ireland. By expanding our presence in the area we aim to create a hub for Europe and bring us closer to the patients in the region who will receive these life-saving therapies," chairman and chief executive of Edwards Lifesciences Michael Mussallem said.
Employees at the plant will manufacture transcatheter therapies to repair or replace damaged heart valves.
Edwards Lifesciences first set up in Ireland in 2018 when it opened a premises in the Shannon Free Zone , where it now employs 250 people.
The initial investment in the Castletroy premises was announced in October 2018 as €80 million. However, in 2019 the company said it would increase that figure to €160 million. The additional investment by Edwards in its Limerick operation included the purchase of additional land, the construction of a larger facility to allow for possible future expansion, and the integration of upgraded technology.
Skills
The news was welcomed by Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar.
“It’s great to be back in Limerick to officially open this fantastic new facility for Edwards Lifesciences,” he said. “It’s an enormous vote of confidence in the midwest region and the talent, skills and experience on offer here. Congratulations to the team involved, and the very best of luck with this remarkable expansion.”
IDA Ireland chief executive Martin Shanahan said the investment was "terrific news" for the midwest region and for Ireland.
“It demonstrates the company’s commitment to the region and its ambitions for its operations here. IDA Ireland remains committed to winning jobs and investment in regional locations.”
