Some 55 jobs are to be created in a €21.8 million investment by a meat-processing company in Co Tipperary, it was announced today.
Dew Valley Foods is to build a new research and development centre at its Thurles plant.
Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Mary Coughlan said the project was an excellent endorsement of the Irish operation, which already employs 160 people.
The investment was supported by Enterprise Ireland.
"The food sector is a key industry in Ireland and Dew Valley is an excellent example of the type of innovative high-value-added food companies that Enterprise Ireland is keen to support.," Ms Coughlan said.
"This significant investment encompasses all the elements of Enterprise Ireland's strategy for Irish businesses; it will enable international growth through innovation and enhances key employee skills and leadership capabilities."
Jack Blake, managing director of Dew Valley, said the investment would not only bring 55 high-skilled jobs but generate significant benefits for the local
economy.
Dew Valley began operating in 1984 and is one of the largest cooked bacon manufacturers in Europe. The company provides cooked bacon products to the food service and food processing sectors.