SOCIAL NETWORKING giant Facebook plans to create 100 jobs at its Dublin base by next year.

Facebook will increase staff numbers at its Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) headquarters in Dublin by one-third over the next year, a spokeswoman for the company confirmed yesterday.

It currently employs 200 people at its Dublin base, so this will bring the head count to 300.

Dublin Chamber of Commerce said this new investment would support Dublin’s growing “world-class” internet services cluster.

“We are delighted with Facebook’s decision to expand their base in Dublin and view it is a sign of their commitment to Ireland,” said Gina Quin, Dublin Chamber chief executive. “It is also a clear indication that international businesses still view Ireland as a good place to do business.”

Facebook’s Dublin employees work in advertising, multilingual sales support, finances, human resources, user operations and development. It is understood that the new positions will be gradually created across these areas over the coming 12 months.

In 2008, Facebook followed in the footsteps of other leading internet-based firms including Google, eBay and Yahoo! by establishing a presence in Dublin. Its investment in Ireland was supported by the IDA. Initially Facebook created 70 Irish jobs, but this has since grown to 200.

Ms Quin noted that more than 75 multinational technology firms had now established an international base in Dublin.

“Dublin is competing against other international city regions in attracting businesses like Facebook,” she said. “It . . . will help facilitate economic recovery if we continue to do so.

“The proliferation of internet service companies in the Dublin city region is leading to growth of indigenous companies as well as new spin-offs,” Ms Quin added.