PHARMACEUTICAL GROUP Mylan is to create 500 jobs in Dublin and Galway over the next five years following a €380 million investment in its Irish operations.

The investment, which is being supported by IDA Ireland, will include an expansion of Mylan’s research and development (RD) capabilities here.

Mylan is the largest so-called “generics” pharmaceutical manufacturer in Ireland, producing medicines that are no longer patented.

Of the 500 jobs, some 220 will be at Mylan’s Bioniche Pharma unit in Indreabhán, Co Galway, with the remainder at Gerard Laboratories in Baldoyle, north Dublin.

Mylan currently employs about 700 people at its facilities in Ireland. The planned expansion involves RD and manufacturing capabilities within the company’s respiratory, injectables and oral solids franchises.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny said Mylan’s decision to expand in Dublin and Galway was “most welcome”.

“Mylan is a key member of the Irish pharmaceutical sector, and one of the top suppliers in the country, providing the market with high-quality generic pharmaceuticals and over-the-counter medicines.”

Minister for Jobs Richard Bruton, who also attended the launch, said the news was evidence that the Government was on track with its jobs action plan which aims to deliver 100,000 new jobs by 2016. “The life sciences industry is a key part of this Government’s strategy for jobs and growth.”

Mylan chief executive Heather Bresch said: ‘‘This investment in Mylan’s Irish operations and the growth of our capabilities in the country demonstrate our continued commitment to and confidence in our respiratory franchise and injectables platform, both of which are among Mylan’s many long-term growth drivers.

“Ireland also has proven to be a valuable location for Mylan, providing the company with access to a skilled and highly educated workforce that shares our strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.”

In addition to the financial incentives provided by the IDA, Údarás na Gaeltachta also supported the expansion.