Work has begun on a new pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Co Kerry.
Astellas Ireland started construction for its €330 million state-of-the-art facility at Kerry Technology Park in Tralee.
The project is estimated to create 600 construction jobs and 100 roles in engineering, science and technology.
The new facility is expected to increase the expansion of Astellas' in-house production capabilities for pharmaceutical products and is planned to be operational by 2028.
Chief Manufacturing Officer of Astellas Pharma Hideki Shima said: "Today marks a significant achievement for our company and reflects our continued commitment to expansion and innovation in the region.
"Not only will it further the Astellas vision to be at the forefront of healthcare change by turning innovative science into value for patients, but it will also be a growth opportunity for the many people who will bring this facility to life."
A ceremony to mark the breaking of the ground was attended by Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Simon Coveney and Minister for Education Norma Foley.
