Biotechnology firm Amgen is investing US$200m in an expansion programme in Ireland which will create up to 100 jobs. Some 350 construction jobs will be also created during the 19-month building period.
The expansion includes the construction of an 11,700 sq-metre building extension, a new production plant, an expanded warehouse and the major refurbishment of its existing buildings.
As well as this, it will make a research and development investment to give its Dun Laoghaire facility a major technology process enhancement, aiming to make the plant ‘one of the leading biotechnology manufacturing sites in the world.’
The announcement comes a year after Amgen bought the former Pfizer plant in Dun Laoghaire, which helped it keep all 280 jobs at the site. This expansion will create up to 100 jobs within Amgen and 350 construction jobs will be created in the 19-month building period.
Recruitment has already begun and Amgen said ‘many more’ will be employed on a contractual basis.
“The Government welcomes this exciting expansion by Amgen as we continue to target the development of the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry through our Action Plan for Jobs,” said Taoiseach Enda Kenny at the groundbreaking ceremony.
“This is a really positive development for Ireland and for Dun Laoghaire, with the creation of 350 construction jobs and a 100 new high-end jobs at their facility.
“It is a great example of industry working with the local community and it sends a signal of confidence in Dublin and Ireland as the location of choice for biotechnology and pharmaceutical investment outside the US. For our part, the Government will work hard to support an environment where R&D can flourish so that the IDA can continue to attract important investment and jobs like this,” he said.
The investment was attracted into the country with support from IDA Ireland.
Investment
“We are very pleased to expand our investment in Ireland,” said Martin VanTrieste, senior vice-president of Quality at Amgen.
“We applaud the Irish Government and IDA Ireland for its vision in promoting innovation and science, which align with Amgen’s commitment to innovation and investing in scientific programmes that make a difference for patients.”
“As we expand internationally, Dun Laoghaire will enhance our global production capability, ensuring continuity of supply of Amgen medicines for seriously ill patients worldwide. We appreciate the support of our staff, the local community, the local authorities, IDA Ireland and the Irish Government,” VanTrieste said.
Amgen also announced that Ireland was selected to participate in a new professional development initiative for science teachers in Europe. The Amgen Science Teacher Training Initiative will give more than 500 secondary life science teachers professional development opportunities.
Its programme partner is the Centre for the Advancement of Science and Mathematics Teaching & Learning, which includes scientists, mathematicians and educationalists from DCU and St Patrick’s College.
