One of the world's largest hotel groups is to create 190 new jobs in an expansion of call centre operations in Cork.
Starwood Hotels says it plans to employ 450 people at its call centre at Penrose Quay by the end of 2004.
The Tanaiste, Ms Mary Harney, said the latest announcement brought the number of new jobs announced in the last week to 840. "In a difficult global environment Ireland is continuing to prove attractive to foreign investment," she said.
The group owns, leases or manages 740 hotels in 80 countries and its brands include the Sheraton and Westin chains of hotels.