THERE was a
significant change in the fortunes of the Southside on the jobs front last week
following the creation of 400 positions in Clondalkin.
Pharmaceutical
giant Pfizer announced that it was investing
?¬146 million at their large Grange
Castle complex, which already employs over 1,100 people.
Software giant
Microsoft is also applying for planning permission for a massive expansion at
Grange Castle, and follows moves by Digital Realty Trust to set up a
significantly sized operation at the same location.
Labour TD Robert
Dowds expressed his delight at the news. “I am absolutely delighted that
Pfizer is investing so much money in our community,
? he said.
“And the 400 jobs
to be created will be a much needed boost.
“With
Microsoft and Digital Realty Trust also set to expand or set up operations there
too it means that Clondalkin has now established itself as a major destination
for foreign direct investment. These massive investments by global leaders are
a measure of the confidence which these companies have in Ireland and the Irish
workforce.
?
He added:
“The Government is doing all it can to attract foreign direct investment
such as this, which will play a key role on the path to recovery.
“I want to
wish Pfizer every good wish on their expansion, and hope that the company will
continue to invest in Clondalkin and in Ireland.”
The positive
news followed a devastating week on the Southside recently when the area
suffered a double jobs blow affecting a similar number of people.
Over 400 jobs
were on the line after two companies – Allied Foods in Tallaght and PocketKings
in Cherrywood – revealed plans to cut staff numbers.
Meanwhile,
Russell Brennan Keane, a city centre based chartered accountants and business
advisers group have welcomed 12 new
graduates to their three year CAI training program.
Located on Lower
Baggot Street, the firm’s recruitment programme brings the total new hires to
22 staff, ranging from accounting trainees to experienced personnel, over the
last six months.