GE HealthCare to develop new €132m facility at Cork site 

Global medical technology company GE HealthCare has today announced a €132m investment to expand its Carrigtwohill site.

A new state-of-the-art facility on the grounds of the existing site will enable 25 million more patient doses per year of contrast media - injectable diagnostic imaging agents used to enhance visualisation of organs, blood vessels and tissues during medical imaging - by the end of 2027, the company said.

The new 3,000m2 facility, which will support both established and pipeline products, is set to include solution preparation vessels, multi-functional powder handling systems, a new filling line and autoclaves, with advanced automation systems underpinning production.

Once established, the company said the additional capacity will cater for the growing global demand.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin is due to turn the sod at the site later this morning.

Speaking ahead of the event he said, “GE HealthCare has been manufacturing in Ireland for more than 30 years, and has invested extensively in the Carrigtwohill site and the people working here.

“I am delighted to welcome this significant new investment here in Cork, which is testament to the commitment of GE HealthCare in Ireland, and also to our highly skilled workforce.” 

Engineering firm, IPS-Integrated Project Services, will lead the project with enabling construction works starting at the Carrigtwohill facility next month.

Over 250 construction roles expected to be created.

President and CEO of GE HealthCare’s pharmaceutical diagnostics (PDx) segment, Kevin O’Neill, said the new facility demonstrates the company’s broader commitment “not just to address future demand, but also to increase resiliency and security of industry supply for customers”.

Eugene Barrett, site leader and managing director of GE HealthCare Ireland, added: “This expansion strengthens our longstanding presence in Cork, where we have a highly skilled team, access to leading talent in the pharmaceutical industry, strong distribution links around the world and a great partnership with IDA Ireland.” 

First doses from the new facility are expected by the end of 2027, he said.

Meanwhile, IDA Ireland CEO Michael Lohan said: “Today’s announcement by GE HealthCare to expand their manufacturing facility and related expertise for producing vital pharmaceuticals and creating employment opportunities is very welcome.

“It’s an endorsement from GE HealthCare senior leadership team of the confidence in the capability and competency of the team at the Carrigtwohill campus developed over three decades.

“I wish GE HealthCare every success with this investment and assure them of IDA Ireland’s continued partnership and support.”