FERNE Foods will create up to 96 jobs over the next three years at its plant in Lisnaskea, Co Fermanagh.

The company will invest up to £3.2 million to develop its egg and poultry processing operations, according to Mr John McGuckian, the Northern Irish Industrial Development Board chairman.

The IDB is backing the investment with financial assistance of £487,000.

"The investment will help the company establish a cost structure which will strengthen its competitiveness as it seeks to develop its export business,"

Mr McGuckian said.

The company will move into new products including frozen omelettes and scrambled eggs, said the managing director, Mr Harry Steele. The company will also increase marketing in the UK and Europe, particularly in the fast food, travel and catering sectors.