European firms operating in Ireland directly employ 280,000 people and contribute €16 billion annually in wages to the Irish economy, according to a new report from business group Ibec.
The research has been launched to mark the role of European business as part of Ireland’s EU Presidency.
The report highlights major regional contributions from key European employers, including Novo Nordisk’s €432 million site investment, Ericsson’s 50-year R&D presence in Athlone, Danone’s manufacturing footprint in Wexford and Cork, and Schneider Electric’s regional hubs in Galway and Cork.
“Beyond the scale of employment of Irish workers, over 250,000 European workers have chosen Ireland as their home to build successful careers in Ireland’s rapidly growing labour market, making us one of the most open countries in Europe for talent,” said Fergal O’Brien, Executive Director of Policy, Lobbying and Global Affairs at Ibec.
“This is essential to the future prosperity of our economy and in ensuring we continue to source needed talent in sectors like construction, IT, and hospitality- all of which rely heavily on overseas workers,” Mr O’Brien said.
The report will officially be launched today by the Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne.
“Ireland’s economic strength is fundamentally tied to our European identity, and this report shows the clear, two-way benefit of our EU membership underpinned by the strength of our relationships across the broader continent,” Mr Byrne said.
“As we lead the Council of the EU during our Presidency, strengthening a Single Market that works with our European partners remains at the very top of our agenda,” he added.
