More than 1,000 jobs are being created in a series of investments including plans for new privately run care homes and expansions at technology firms and a leading energy, waste and water company.
Some 800 jobs are planned by Nua Healthcare as it builds 20 centres for people with disabilities in the south of the country over the coming three years.
In another economic boost, the French services company Veolia will add 300 positions to its 500 strong workforce over the next five years.
And in other announcements, cloud computing company Netigate is to base its international headquarters in Cork and create 45 jobs – and the Irish software company Boxever will add 100 positions as it expands its business of helping airlines and travel companies gather and analyse data.
Nua Healthcare’s expansion plans for the next three years were revealed at the official opening of the private operator’s Glenview House in Kilmallock, Co Limerick.
The six-bed facility will be staffed by up to 30 carers giving round the clock support to adults with special needs.
Recruitment will be for social care, nursing and administrative support roles.
Edward Dunne, chief executive of the company, said the investment was down to huge demand for their services over recent years.
“Today’s announcement is a major step towards making our service more accessible to individuals nationally,” he said.
“The ability to do so is testament to the incredible work of our committed team and partners in such a specialist sector.”
Also at the official opening, junior health minister Kathleen Lynch said: “Intellectual disability care is a key priority in the health sector and the services offered by Nua Healthcare in support of the HSE are invaluable in the Munster region and beyond.
“I welcome their commitment to, and investment in providing high quality services for both children and adults with complex support needs across the country and the job creation in local communities to meet these needs.”
Nua Healthcare already employs more than 800 staff at 28 locations around the country, including Kildare, Laois, Wicklow, Offaly, Westmeath, Dublin, Tipperary, Limerick and Cork.
Veolia provides services to Irish Water and also has the operating contract for Mayo Renewable Power, the largest independent biomass power plant in Co Mayo, which opens in 2017.
The company said its expansion was aimed at helped companies move to low carbon models.
Country manager Pat Gilroy said: “We are now poised for expansion in the Irish market, targeting double digit growth annually over the next five years and creating 300 new jobs.
“As we transition to a low carbon economy, it is imperative that companies can access environmentally sustainable solutions.
“We are setting out to do just that, providing businesses in Ireland with the means to manage their resource needs more efficiently and grow with us in a circular economy.”
