Artist’s impression of the new Meira facility at Shannon Free Zone

Shannon Chamber has described the decision by MeiraGTx Holdings plc (Nasdaq: MGTX) to invest in Shannon as confirmation that investing in infrastructure ahead of demand pays dividends.

Congratulating Shannon Group/Shannon Commercial Properties on having the foresight to deliver quality turnkey solutions that attract investment of this nature, and IDA Ireland for attracting company in the life sciences sector to Shannon, Shannon Chamber CEO Helen Downes said:  “The investment is very much in line with IDA’s strategy for the Mid-West region and it also reinforces one of the key messages for sustained economic development and regional balance of investing in enabling infrastructure ahead of demand. It is great to see this approach working again and delivering positive results in a difficult economic environment.

“With three advanced manufacturing facilities under construction in the Shannon Free Zone and the decision by MeiraGTx Holdings plc to occupy two of these, comprising 94,000 sq. ft, proves that when the infrastructure is designed to meet the high standards required to meet global regulatory requirements, demand will follow supply. 

“Having witnessed first-hand the transformation of the Free Zone over the past few years, which has already attracted investment from Jaguar Land Rover and Edwards Life Sciences, we look forward to seeing the additional 60,000 sq. ft that will become  available in the current construction phase attracting further investment. 

“We are operating in a very difficult economic environment right now and to see a company of this calibre arrive in Shannon is also good news for the existing pipeline of talent and for graduates in this region who may be seeking employment.

“With the plasmid production facility expected to be operational by the end of this year and the viral vector manufacturing facility by year-end 2021, Shannon Chamber looks forward to working closely with the set-up team from MeiraGTx and to visiting the facility when operational,” added Ms Downes.