LIMERICK HAS received another major jobs boost with the announcement that more than 160 jobs are to be created by a number of locally-based companies.
Seven companies, some of which are located at the National Technology Park adjacent to the University of Limerick, will create a total of 168 jobs over the next three years.
The companies, which cover a range of sectors, currently employ 42 people and are expanding their businesses with the support of Enterprise Ireland.
This is the third significant jobs boost for Limerick in recent weeks and last month, two US firms announced 75 new jobs for the city.
Healthcare giant Vistakon confirmed its €100 million expansion plans for its manufacturing facility at the National Technology Park creating some 60 jobs, while E-Commerce company ChanelAdvisor Corporation is to create 15 new jobs with the establishment of a Business Support Centre in Limerick.
Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Micheál Martin yesterday said Limerick was one of the top counties for start-up companies.
"What is particularly encouraging is the number of firms which are based or have started off in the National Technology Park, often with the invaluable support of the local third level institutions.
"I want to encourage both existing Limerick companies or people planning a start up to take time out to examine the supports which are available.
"These firms are providing valuable jobs in communities across Limerick and I want to wish them every success into the future," he added.
The seven companies planning to expand their workforces are: You Book In at the National Technology Park, up three jobs to 20; Broker in Raheen, up 14 to 43; Episensor at Moylish Park, up two to 19; Kneat Solutions at the Technology Park, up nine to 15;
Stokes Bio of Henry Street, up seven to 12; Biotechnical Processes of Castletroy, up six to 41 and Crescent Diagnostics at the Technology Park plans to employ six people.
