Boost as IBM creates hundreds of jobs

Cormac Murphy

GLOBAL tech company IBM has announced the creation of several hundred new jobs in Dublin, in a massive boost to the economy.

The positions will be based in a new Global Services Hub in Mulhuddart in Dublin 15.

IBM, which currently employs more than 3,000 people in Ireland and 433,000 globally, is one of the longest-established information technology companies.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Enterprise Minister Richard Bruton welcomed the announcement, while Transport Minister Leo Varadkar, in whose constituency the jobs will be based, said the news reinforces the area as a technology hub.

"This is further proof that Dublin 15 is a viable choice for investors. These positions at the new Global Services Integration Hub, in Mulhuddart (Blanchardstown) will give a major boost to the area," Mr Varadkar said.

He added: "Dublin West is already a technology hub for the wider city and these new jobs will reinforce that status.

"I look forward to welcoming the new staff members to the constituency. Some 3,000 people are employed by IBM Ireland in research, software development and services in Mulhuddart, Cork and Galway. They are now a vital employer in the area."

Leader

IBM is a global leader in the field of computer hardware, software and cloud computing applications, technology services and global business services.

It had revenues of €84.36bn for the financial year ending December 2011.

Mr Bruton and State jobs agency the IDA met senior IBM executives on a recent trip to the US.

The Taoiseach said: "This investment by IBM is most welcome news for Ireland. The decision by IBM to locate a Global Services Integration Hub in Ireland follows on from a significant number of announcements in recent months from world-leading multinational companies which proves the value of economic stability in attracting new investment.

"It also demonstrates the value of Ireland's position in Europe when it comes to our ability to attract overseas investment. Today's announcement displays IBM's continued commitment to its Irish operations and staff."

Mr Bruton added: "In recent months we have seen some major successes in attracting new investment from multinationals."

cmurphy@herald.ie