Over 250 construction roles are expected to be created after global medical company GE HealthCare announced an investment of $138m to expand its operations in County Cork.

Engineering firm, IPS-Integrated Project Services, will lead the project which will grow the USA headquartered company's contrast media fill and finish manufacturing site in Carrigtwohill.

Enabling construction works will start at the facility this month. A new state-of-the-art facility on the grounds of the existing site will enable 25 million more patient doses per year of contrast media by the end of 2027, helping address growing global demand.

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Contrast media are injectable diagnostic imaging agents used to enhance visualisation of organs, blood vessels and tissues during medical imaging.

The new 3000m2 facility - which will support both established and pipeline products – will include solution preparation vessels, multi-functional powder handling systems, a new filling line and autoclaves, with advanced automation systems underpinning production.

Eugene Barrett, Site Leader and Managing Director, GE HealthCare Ireland, said: "This expansion strengthens our longstanding presence in Cork, where we have a highly skilled team, access to leading talent in the pharmaceutical industry, strong distribution links around the world and a great partnership with IDA Ireland.

"First doses from our new facility are expected by the end of 2027 and we are proud of the impact our site will continue to make for patients around the world."

IDA Ireland Executive Director, Michael Lohan, added: "This is the latest of GE HealthCare's investments in its Cork site which has been producing vital pharmaceuticals for over 30 years. The continued growth and development of the site is testament to its commitment to serving patients and to Ireland's leadership and support for the pharmaceutical industry."