Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I would not like to give the impression that this part of east Cork is not getting attention from the IDA. Last May, Merck announced an investment of approximately €440 million to increase membrane manufacturing capacity at its site in Carrigtwohill. This investment included an extra 370 jobs. Last July, Stryker officially opened a new high-tech facility with the creation of 600 jobs. Last September, AbbVie announced an investment of €60 million with the creation of 70 jobs. Last October, GE Healthcare announced an expansion worth €30 million with the creation of 140 jobs. All of this happened in the area in question.

East Cork is a highly competitive place globally in terms of attracting FDI. The close proximity to Cork Airport, a highly skilled workforce across the Cork region, and the Government's €200 million investment in the rail network between Cork and Midleton and Cork and Cobh are a help. That said, this strategic site is a priority for me and the IDA. It would be a significant help if we could upgrade the road infrastructure in and around the site, as accessing the site is difficult. I will continue speaking to the Minister for Transport about this matter.

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