MADGE Networks is in discussions with IDA Ireland on expanding manufacturing at its Swords plant.

This could result in 120 extra jobs being created over the next four years.

Madge yesterday opened its 50,000 sq ft facility in the towns which, when it is at full production, is to employ 120 people in the factory.

At yesterday's opening, Madge founder and chief executive, Mr Robert Madge, said the establishment of the Irish plant was of particular strategic importance to the future development of the company.

Before setting up the Dublin plant, Madge sub contracted all manufacturing of its products.

He added that the growth and development of the Irish operation had surpassed the company's own projections.

With more than 30 employees now recruited for the Irish operation, the company had, in its first nine months of operation, already exceeded half of the jobs target set for the initial five years.

The Swords development involved a £10.2 million investment by Madge with the support of IDA Ireland.