Apple to create 500 jobs in Cork

Five hundred new jobs are being created at Apple's European Headquarters in Cork, it was announced today.

Five hundred new jobs are being created at Apple's European Headquarters in Cork, it was announced today.

The computer technology giant already employs 2,800 people there.

The jobs will be rolled out over the next 18 months.

Through the success of the iPhone, iPad and iPod, Apple has grown from one of computing's "also rans" into the world's largest technology company.

The Cork headquarters has long since moved away from manufacturing, to focus instead on sales and technical support for growing markets.

The 500 new staff will be recruited to cope with that expanding business. The company is expected to build a three-storey office block next to its current base in Hollyhill to accommodate the extra staff.

Positions available are likely to be highly skilled in areas of technical support and online services.

A spokesman for Apple said the organisation was thrilled to expand in Ireland.

“Apple has been in Cork for over 30 years and we are thrilled to be expanding our presence there,” he said.

“Our plans will add over 500 new jobs to support our growing business across Europe.”

Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Richard Bruton TD today welcomed the announcement.

"The announcement that Apple, one of the world's leading companies is expanding its operations in Ireland and creating 500 new jobs, is a huge boost for the country," he said.

"It is a great testament to the company's workforce, a great vote of confidence in the future of our economy, and it shows what is possible for Ireland at the heart of a stable Europe".

Welcoming the news, IDA Ireland CEO, Barry O'Leary said: "This development continues the strong trend of investment over the past years in Ireland, in particular from global ICT companies and demonstrates Ireland's continuing success in attracting FDI additional investment."

News of Apple's expansion follows two other jobs announcements this week.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny revealed plans for pharmaceutical firm Mylan to create 500 positions at its Dublin and Galway branches.

Parcel delivery company DPD Ireland unveiled plans to create 50 positions in Athlone, Co Westmeath.

Meanwhile, Mr Kenny, Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore and Mr Bruton will today give details of progress made in the Government’s Action Plan for Jobs, which aims to create 100,000 positions across the country by 2016.

Speaking in Dublin this morning, Mr Kenny said the announcement by Apple was a major vote of confidence for Ireland.

"Apple made this decision, I'm quite sure, in the same way that Mylan made theirs during the week," he said.

"The productivity; the environment; the workforce; the ease of being able to do business; the facilities made available through the IDA… (these factors have) been very conducive to Apple making this decision."

Read more: Pharma firm Mylan to create 500 Irish jobs

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