IDA Ireland is to begin building in regional locations, with two sites earmarked in Waterford and Athlone.

The construction projects, which will see the building of two advanced technology facilities in the midlands and southeast, are expected to create about 180 jobs during the construction phase.

Both projects are expected to be completed by November.

It is the first time since the 1980s that IDA Ireland has undertaken such a project.

“The availability of high quality property solutions is a key component in winning FDI projects,” said IDA chief executive Barry O’Leary. “These initiatives will advance the product offering for both Midlands and the South-East and therefore underpin the conversion of projects from IDA’s pipeline. Furthermore, these initiatives by IDA will address the current deficit of suitable property solutions and promote investment into regional locations. IDA’s direct intervention to construct these buildings is due to the absence of private funding available to do so.”

Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation Richard Bruton welcomed the news, describing it as an important part of the Government's plan to boost regional job creation.