PHARMACEUTICAL firm Pfizer is to invest € 11 million in a research and development unit at its Ringaskiddy site in Cork to enhance its manufacturing technology.

The process development centre will concentrate on continuous processing, which Pfizer plans to introduce for its active pharmaceutical ingredients manufacturing.

Dr Paul Duffy, Pfizer’s vice-president of manufacturing in Ireland, said the decision to locate the research unit in Cork was based on “demonstrated technical competence with similar projects” and the success of a number of other research programmes.

Tánaiste Mary Coughlan said the project was “highly strategic” for the pharmaceutical industry, and “will significantly enhance Ireland’s image as a location for innovative RD”. The development is supported by the IDA.