Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Micheál Martin today announced the creation of 33 highly skilled jobs at a start-up technology company in Co Cork.
Photonics company EMF (Ireland) Ltd, which will be based in Mitchelstown, will be developing technologically advanced equipment to be used in the manufacture of solar cells and lasers.
The company, which is supported by Enterprise Ireland, expects to see the number of employees rise to 50 by 2009 and anticipates exports of €5.4 million (£3.75 million) from its investment.
Mr Martin said: "I am delighted to see a company like EMF Limited, built on a solid foundation of innovation and intellectual capital, being set up in a regional location.
"Our regional towns and villages need new industry in order to retain and attract skilled people. Companies like this show just how much can be achieved in a short space of time."