Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster at Almac’s Craigavon plant on Tuesday

A Northern Ireland pharmaceutical company is to create 229 jobs as part of a £13.7m investment in the business.

Almac Pharma Services, based in Craigavon, Co Armagh provides highly specialised drug development and manufacturing contract services to international pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.

The £13.7m investment is across two core areas of the company’s business.

Jobs creation agency Invest Northern Ireland has offered just over £2m of financial support.

A new development and analytical facility will be established for its Pharmaceutical Development Service (PDS).

This will create highly specialised formulation drug testing, compliance and quality positions.

The second part of the investment goes into the expansion of a key production line which is used to manufacture a highly successful product for export markets will result in further skilled operations and manufacturing jobs.

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said: “This investment is good news for Craigavon and will reinforce Northern Ireland’s position in the wider life sciences sector.

“The 229 new jobs will deliver almost £5.5m annually in salaries, bringing an important and positive economic boost which will benefit local people.

“Almac has a reputation for excellence in the international pharmaceuticals sector and today’s announcement will ensure that it remains in a competitive position and can continue to meet the needs of its global client base.”

Graeme McBurney of Almac said: “Centralising and expanding our production in Craigavon will mean more cost effective manufacturing and optimal quality control and distribution.

“The added manufacturing capability will enable us to operate with improved speed and efficiency, particularly in the early stages of projects.

“Ultimately, the investment will make Almac an even more attractive proposition to international clients who seek streamlined, one stop drug development solutions.”