Minister Predicts Increased Industrial Development Opportunites In Clare

Clare FM

The European Commissioner designate has expressed confidence there'll be "more and more opportunities for industrial development" in Clare in the coming years. Fianna Fáil's Michael McGrath has visited the east Clare Beckman Coulter facility where a major jobs boost as well as a significant investment have been announced. Located on the outskirts of O'Callaghan's Mills, the Beckman Coulter facility is the largest employer in east Clare - supporting 560 jobs. Last year, employment generated by the company had an employment income impact of €55 million. Specialising in advanced diagnostics, Beckman Coulter is one the top three diagnostics companies worldwide and employs over 11,000 people around the world. This week, the firm has announced a €10 million investment in this county which will support the addition of two new fully automated reagent filling lines and upgrades to the site's infrastructure. Additionally, it's hiring for 50 roles and expect 30 additional jobs to be created in the near future. Beckman Coutler President Kevin O'Reilly insists more growth is expected as the company's star rises further. The announcement at the east Clare facility was attended by former Minister for Finance and European Commissioner designate Michael McGrath. The Fianna Fáil politician says due to Clare's strategic location, more employers like Beckman Coulter must be incentivised to come to the county. A recent meeting of West Clare's local representatives heard Kilmurry Ibrickane Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Shannon call for more industrial hubs like Shannon's Smithstown Industrial Estate to be created countywide. Tulla Fianna Fáil Senator Timmy Dooley believes people in Clare ideally shouldn't have to travel far to reach their place of employment.