A Cork company is to create 150 jobs over the next three years.

SouthWestern also announced a €3.5 million investment in research and development with support from the Government through Enterprise Ireland.

SouthWestern provides outsourcing services to public and private sector clients in the Irish, UK and European markets in areas such as agriculture and food, energy, media, insurance and telecoms.

The firm currently employs 450 people in Ireland and 150 at its Polish base in Lodz. It also has a Dublin office.

Minister for Jobs Richard Bruton said business costs must be slashed, innovation encouraged and access to finance improved if more jobs are to be created.

"Government does not create jobs, but if job-creating businesses like SouthWestern are to succeed and grow across the country, the Government has a huge role to play," Mr Bruton said. "We must not only provide supports but must also provide leadership in the economy as a substantial actor in its own right."

Jim Costello, SouthWestern chief executive, said the company sees great potential for growth in public services, utilities, local government and financial services sectors in Ireland, the UK and central Europe. He said the firm wants to play a major role in public sector reform.

"We want to work closely with government agencies to help develop the most effective and cost efficient public services available," Mr Costello said. "We see today as a launching pad for our future expansion and the expansion of the sector as a whole. It is our ambition to develop world-class services that ensure our growth and enhance the quality and international reputation of Ireland's business process outsourcing sector."