It was a mixed day on the jobs front with the news that up to 200 hi-tech jobs will be created in Dublin and Limerick while more than 100 people are to lose their jobs at Aetna in Co Kerry.
US health insurance provider Aetna told staff at its claims processing centre in Castleisland in March that the future of the facility was under review.
Company management said today that it will transfer the work undertaken in Castleisland to other companies abroad over the coming months and the centre in Castleisland will close by the end of the year.
All 106 staff will be made redundant between now and then.
In more positive news, a US online retailer has announced plans to create up to 200 hi-tech jobs.
Gilt Groupe is opening its international headquarters and software development centre in Dublin and a customer support centre in Limerick - its first operations in Europe.
Through www.gilt.com the firm offers some 3.5 million members access to luxury brands at lower prices. It is an invitation only site that sells luxury products at insider prices. Its selection of merchandise - for men, women, children, home decor and travel - change each day and only go on sale for 36 hours with up to 60 per cent off.
Finance Minister Michael Noonan said the company will provide excellent employment opportunities for talented graduates with strong customer service and IT skills in both cities.
Recruitment for senior software engineering and technology roles in Dublin will begin immediately.
The customer support centre in Limerick is due to be operational by September.
Additional reporting: PA