SmithKline Beecham is to expand its production facilities in Dungarvan, Co Waterford through an IDA supported £6.4 million investment. The development will create some 40 jobs over three years.

The group currently employs more than 600 people in Ireland. The Dungarvan operation employs more than 200 people and was set up in 1987 to produce pharmaceuticals for the European, Middle East and African markets.

The expansion plans were welcomed by the Minister for Enterprise and Employment, Mr Bruton, who said a number of locations had been competing for the investment. He said the decision would greatly enhance Ireland's reputation in the international healthcare sector.