Minister for Enterprise Simon Coveney broke ground on the massive new Dexcom medical devices being built outside Athenry on Friday.
The manufacturing facility, which was approved last year, will create 1,000 jobs in the area when complete and represents one of the biggest single private sector investments ever in the West of Ireland.
The 40,227sqm facility is being built on a 32.5ha IDA landbank which currently consists of fields but is zoned for Business & Technology use by the Athenry Local Area Plan.
When completed the massive facility will encompass warehousing, production areas, administration offices, and a restaurant for staff members.
“This investment from Dexcom is not only a huge vote of confidence in Athenry but in Ireland as a whole,” Minister Coveney said.
“We are turning the sod on Dexcom’s first production plant in Europe and taking the next important step in bringing 1000 jobs to Athenry over the next 5 years.”
“I want to thank Dexcom and congratulate all those in my department and the IDA who secured this investment.”
The 1,000 available jobs include support in finance and HR, as well as a variety of engineering roles, ranging from leadership to graduate positions.
Dexcom intends to build strong links with the local universities in Galway and nearby counties, particularly around engineering and quality assurance courses.
In an additional boost to the local economy, it is expected that for every job created by Dexcom, a further 1 – 1.7 jobs will be created indirectly
The new facility will have the capacity to produce millions of Dexcom rtCGM sensors each year, helping to improve the lives of people with diabetes in EMEA.
The creation of the Dexcom manufacturing facility will undoubtedly be a gamechanger for the West of Ireland,” said Barry Regan, Executive Vice President of Operations at Dexcom.
“This is a pivotal moment for Dexcom and we are confident it will have an immensely positive impact in Galway and the wider region too, not only in relation to job creation but also as we become part of and contribute to this community.”
“We’re already proud to be partnering with Connacht Rugby, and this is only the beginning.”
Dexcom has announced a 12-year partnership with Connacht Rugby this week, which includes renaming the iconic Sportsground Stadium.
Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland said, “The sod-turning event is an important moment in this facility – first announced last year – becoming a reality.”
“This important strategic investment by Dexcom, which is the first of its kind outside of the US, will have far-reaching economic and social benefits for Athenry, the West and indeed all of Ireland.”
“I wish continued success to Dexcom and assure the team of IDA Ireland’s continued support.”
