Bucking the trend in the high-tech sector towards downsizing and job losses, America Online has announced plans to expand its Waterford-based called centre, creating 125 new jobs in the area.
This will bring the number of people employed by AOL in the area to 650 and makes it the company's largest such facility in Europe.
The jobs are primarily in the technical support, sales and customer service areas and the expansion of the Waterford operation is a "testimony to the growth of the AOL business and demonstrates the dedication and performance of our existing team," according to AOL UK Vice President, Mr Tony Hanaway.
The announcement came as the Tanaiste and Ministe for Trade Enterprise and Employment, Ms Harney was attending the official opening of IDA Ireland's new office in Waterford.