A new research and development hub is to be opened by pharmaceuticals giant Pfizer at its Ringaskiddy site in Co Cork, in the Republic of Ireland.
The state-of-the-art 11 million euro (£9.5 million) facility will create new manufacturing technology to boost the firm’s worldwide operations.
Said spokesman Dr Paul Duffy: “Pfizer in Ireland has a proven track record in relation to process improvement and optimisation. The decision to invest in the Cork PDC was based on demonstrated technical competence with similar projects and the successful completion of a number of R&D programmes.”
Irish enterprise minister Mary Coughlan says the plans will enhance Ireland’s reputation for research and development.
She commented: “In addition, as it involves the co-location of substantial R&D and manufacturing, it will be a leading example to other global companies of what can be achieved in Ireland.
“This investment is excellent news for the Cork site as the technology will allow Pfizer to perform specific chemistries that would not otherwise be achievable in standard manufacturing and in so doing will make Ireland a centre of excellence and a key Pfizer location for further development of this technology.”
