A Co Antrim company has created 200 new jobs in their drive to try to help save lives during the health pandemic.
Randox has announced an investment of £30m in a new specialised COVID-19 testing lab in Crumlin.
The specialised laboratory which was created in four weeks, will be used to enhance the national testing capacity.
Peter FitzGerald, Managing Director of Randox Laboratories, said: “An incredible amount of work has gone into making this cutting-edge testing facility a reality in a relatively short space of time.
"We know that effective testing is the most effective way to both save lives and promote a timely return to a more normal society.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to all my colleagues at Randox who continue to work assiduously to process such a high volume of tests in a timely manner.
“I know I speak on behalf of everyone when I say we appreciate all your hard work and the vital role you play in the practical application of COVID-19 testing.”
Now the company is recruiting new staff across science, engineering and manufacturing with 200 new positions involved in the testing of potential COVID-19 samples.
They will also be involved in the construction of 200 new state-of-the-art diagnostic analysers which will significantly increase Randox’s capacity for COVID-19 testing.
Secretary of State Brandon Lewis MP visited the site on Tuesday and welcomed the investment. He said: “I was impressed during my visit with the dedication of staff and the top-class facilities at Randox. This investment will help support the UK’s nationwide effort to fight the coronavirus and ultimately save lives.”
