A round-up of today's other stories in brief
Services sector up slightly
The Irish services sector rose marginally in November as uncertainty over the economy hampered growth. The NCB Services Purchasing Managers Index was 50.8 in November, just above the 50 mark that separates expansion and contraction. Business sentiment declined to its weakest since July 2009, and new business orders declined marginally. The financial services sector was particularly hard hit, with a marked reduction in business activity. The sector recorded the first negative sentiment since April last year.
Providence increases stake
Irish-listed exploration company Providence Resources has increased its equity stake in the Barryroe oil discovery in the North Celtic Sea. Subject to Government approval, Providence will have a 50 per cent stake in Barryroe. It will also be project operator.
“We now plan to drive this project towards early appraisal, with an initial 3D seismic survey, followed by drilling,” said technical director John O’Sullivan.
US-based firms create new jobs
Over 50 jobs are to be created in Limerick, Galway and Cork.
Rockwell Automation announced yesterday it was expanding its presence in Cork.
Fellow US firm Kemp Technologies is to establish its headquarters for Europe, the Middle East and Africa in Limerick.
IT services and software provider Aspect announced yesterday it would open two new facilities in Galway.
