US companies based in Ireland are recruiting and currently have more than 1,250 job vacancies, according to a survey published today by the American Chamber of Commerce in Ireland.
Of the 100 companies that responded to the American Chamber survey, 72pc said they will be recruiting staff this year. And 68pc of respondents said they are currently recruiting to fill 1,250 vacant positions in roles such as engineering, R&D, production, finance and office administration.
Speaking at the American Chamber’s Annual Independence Day Lunch today, Lionel Alexander, president of the organisation, said 23 US companies have already announced major investments in Ireland this year, which will result in more than 2,000 new jobs in the coming years.
“More than 10 of these investments have been in research and development, which further embeds Ireland within the global corporation. At a time when competition for FDI has never been greater, this investment and these new jobs are very welcome,“ he said.
“The presence of US multinational companies has helped shield Ireland from the ravages of the recession. While it is encouraging that the latest data from the CSO showed economic growth returning to Ireland it will take time for this to translate into an increase in jobs. In this context that US companies are continuing to create employment in Ireland is all the more welcome.”
Respondents to the survey also said Ireland has become more competitive in the current recession. Some 82pc believe Ireland has become more competitive, with 81pc noticing a reduction in the cost of doing business in Ireland. Labour, energy and transport costs have all reduced, according to respondents of the survey.
“While much still needs to be done – on the education front, on investment in infrastructure and in the delivery of the smart economy, the strong message which we can take away from this survey and from the levels of investment secured by US companies in Ireland this year, is that Ireland remains a location of choice for US companies and that these companies are confident of Ireland’s ability to emerge from the current recession,” concluded Alexander.
