Govt’s commitment to technology rewarded with 130 MasterCard jobs – Donohoe

5th February, 2012

Fine Gael Dublin Central Deputy, Paschal Donohoe, has said the Government’s commitment to developing the science, technology and innovation sectors has been rewarded today (Wednesday) with the announcement of 130 MasterCard jobs to be created in Dublin over the next four years.

“The Government has placed a firm focus on the technology and digital sectors in its Action Plan for Jobs announced this week. World class clusters in key sectors of opportunity, such as finance and telecommunications are to be developed with plans for an International Digital Services Centre (IDSC) to develop opportunities for the digital and technological communities.

“MasterCard’s plans to expand its Irish base to such an extent, bringing the total number of staff to 200 and locating its new global headquarters in Dublin, is a recognition the advantages on offer to companies that locate in Ireland.

“MasterCard’s Dublin office has also been named as the company’s centre of excellence for Java, building on the solid progress the company has been making here since its arrival in 2008.

“This announcement comes on the back of a further 800 jobs at Sky in Dublin and 500 jobs at Hewlett-Packard in Galway and Kildare, Abbott pharmaceutical group in Sligo and Big Fish Games in Cork.

“The Government recognises that unless we get our people back to work, a recovery will be next to impossible. By identifying the sectors with growth potential that we can develop for maximum effect, we can create jobs and get the country moving again.

“I am delighted with today’s announcement and the impact it will have for those who secure the jobs. Turning the ship around was never going to be easy but, step by step, the Government is demonstrating that it is moving in the right direction. I look forward to building on our solid foundation and encouraging business growth and development so that much needed jobs can be created, getting our people back to work.”