Johnson & Johnson announces 100 jobs as part of €100m investment in Limerick plant

MEDICAL technology giant Johnson & Johnson Vision Care has announced 100 new jobs as part of a €100m expansion of its Limerick city manufacturing operations.

An additional 200 workers are expected to be employed in the construction phase of Vision Care’s facility at the National Technology Park in Castletroy.

Speaking at this Monday’s announcement, Minister of State for Trade, Employment and Business, Deputy Pat Breen said it is a “huge vote of confidence” in the Mid-West region.

“The expansion, supported by the Government through the IDA, reflects the commitment of the Government and its agencies to pursue balanced and sustainable regional development,” Minister Breen said.

The announcement follows the launch of the Edwards Lifesciences medtech facility across the road from Johnson & Johnson last Friday, where 600 jobs are expected to be created following the completion of its plant in 2021.

Vision Care’s plant leader John Lynch said their aspiration is to bring improved eyesight to people around the world “and the most important way we accomplish that is through the research, development and manufacturing of new medical device technologies.

#WATCH: John Lynch, plant manager with Johnson & Johnson Vison Care in #Limerick, says today's announcement of a €100m investment in its manufacturing operations is 'key milestone' for the company. pic.twitter.com/TXUDqXErpn

— David Hurley (@DHurleyLL) April 8, 2019

“We believe that the new manufacturing roles being introduced in Limerick in 2019 will be foundational in helping us bring new, innovative contact lens products to our patients and customers around the world at an industry-leading pace,” Mr Lynch said.

IDA Ireland CEO Martin Shanahan described this as a “significant announcement” and that the news is a substantial financial investment and “considerable commitment” to its Limerick operations.

“The approximately 100 jobs being added, along with those being created in the construction phase, will greatly benefit the economy of the Mid-West region.

“Having a company of this stature continue to expand its operations enhances Ireland’s global reputation as a Medical Technologies centre of excellence and demonstrates how global companies can successfully operate in regional locations. I wish John and his team continued success.”

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