Minister for Enterprise Richard Bruton has announced 170 new jobs in Clare’s Shannon Free Zone.

US mobile electronics and accessories firm Zagg plans to create 40 new jobs over five years at its manufacturing facility in Shannon, Co Clare. The company will carry out its European expansion through this base.

Its partner company Cregg Logistics, which is based in the same facility, will create the balance of the new jobs over two years. Cregg will have sole responsibility for the manufacturing, packaging and logistics aspects of the new venture.

Reports last month suggested that as many as 300 new positions would be created through the joint venture. Brian Packer, managing director of Zagg International, confirmed today that this level of job creation would be achieved over the next four years.

Mr Bruton said the jobs announcement was a “massive vote of confidence” in the region and great news for Ireland. “I know the company was considering other locations for this investment, and I commend Shannon Development for their work on this project,” he said.

“Today’s announcement shows what Government and business can do when they work together and shows that there are still many positives in the Irish economy. I will be working hard to ensure that we can build on these positives and get genuine growth going again,” he said.

Zagg, a producer of accessories for mobile devices including Apple’s range, has already produced its first order from its new base in Shannon.