It’s more good news on the jobs front.

Biopharma company AbbVie has announced plans to invest €60m in expanding its Cork base, creating 70 new roles at the company.

The plans include the development of a new facility at the Carrigtwohill plant, which already employs around 150 people. Construction will begin in 2023 and it is expected that the facility will be operational by 2025.

“This is another boost for the booming life sciences sector in Cork.” said Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber.

“This €60 million investment by AbbVie in its Carrigtwohill plant highlights the continued dedication of biopharma and life sciences companies to the Cork region. It also provides the strong vote of confidence in our city region’s attractive economic environment and highly skilled workforce.”

With Cork’s recent designation to be a carbon-neutral city by 2030, Mr Healy said it was especially encouraging to see a multinational company like AbbVie investing in reducing the carbon footprint of their site.

He also called for faster delivery of suburban rail stations in East Cork:

“To continue to attract and accommodate investment into our region, sustainable transport and infrastructure must be provided,” he added.

“Government must reverse the decision to not fund the N25 Carrigtwohill to Midleton multi-modal route given the level of investment flowing into the area.

“The acceleration of delivery of new suburban rail stations and cycle ways is necessary to ensure continued support for current and future growth in East Cork.”