merrion street

Simon Coveney TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, has today welcomed the announcement by Irish Distillers of a €100m investment at its plant at Middleton, Co Cork, and the creation of 60 new jobs.

"This is a really strong endorsement for Irish Distillers which is part of a world famous company. It shows how this industry can employ people and create jobs in the Irish economy. Irish Distillers have been a major driver of export growth. In the past year sales of Jameson Whisky alone totalled 3.5 million cases to 120 countries worldwide and Irish Distillers' aim is to triple sales of Jameson Whisky over 9 million cases by 2020. Since 2000 total Irish whiskey exports have increased by 60% and Irish whiskey is one of the fastest growing spirits categories in the world".

Overall, the food and drink industry continues to be a good news story for Ireland with exports in the sector increasing by 25% in the last 2 years. Demand for Irish food and drink is increasing year on year creating opportunities for exports and the opening of new markets. Jameson is a great Irish success story and I wish them continued success.