T.J. Grady Ltd, the Co Mayo-based manufacturer of windows and doors, has announced the creation of 70 new jobs at its Charlestown production plant, bringing the total number of employees to 200. Mr Arthur Grady, the plant's managing director, said the construction boom had led to much of the expansion which is taking place across the company's operations including its uPVC, glass and joinery sections. The company is operating a subsidised transport service from Ballina, Castlebar and Sligo for employees. "There is a low enough population around Charlestown and we want to cast our net a bit wider," Mr Grady said.

The company is also introducing a three-day, 36-hour week for some jobs as part of a move to bring in a second shift. The 20-year-old business is Charlestown's main employer.

B/E Aerospace employs 350 people at its Kilkeel factory, making business class seats for a number of international airlines.