Multi-national  medical device manufacturer Nypro is to create 100 jobs as it expands its operation in Co Wicklow.

The US-headquarter company is opening a new development centre at its base in Bray.

The latest announcement brings to 160 the number of jobs that Nypro has created in Ireland in the past two years, and increases the workforce at the firm to 460.

Speaking this morning, Taoiseach Enda Kenny said announcement would boost the country’s reputation as a leading location for business and investment in the life sciences sector.

“Maintaining Ireland as an attractive location for investment is a priority for Government and is recognised by long established companies such as Nypro who have had a presence here since 1980,” he said.

Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation Richard Bruton said it was an indication of the potential of the sector, describing it as “great news” for Bray.

The company has transformed itself over the past few years from focusing on the electronics industry to moving towards the development and manufacture of complex high-growth inhalation and injectable drug delivery devices.

“This seismic shift in our business model in the last five years was enabled by our parent company Nypro Inc and built upon the skills, work ethic, creativity and drive of our Nypro Ireland team,” vice president of drug delivery and diagnostics with Nypro James O'Gorman said. “The success of this transition is evident by our very impressive large pharmaceutical client list combined with the complexity of the products they have entrusted us to develop and produce, coupled with the bright future for us in Ireland.”