A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A PROSPEROUS 2011

Despite the ongoing economic challenges, 2010 has been an excellent year for Irish export companies, and for Life Sciences companies in particular. Building on this success, we at Life Sciences Ireland look forward to continuing our efforts in driving export growth throughout 2011 and assisting Life Sciences companies in maximizing their export potential.

Given the ongoing adverse weather, we would also like to congratulate all the logistics and transport companies that make it possible for the products to go in and out of Ireland so seamlessly. 2010 has seen many logistics and transport companies achieve the highest standards in the distribution of pharmaceutical products, and their compliance with international regulations, by achieving the Good Distribution Practice (GDP) Passport, helping Ireland to remain a preferred location for manufacturers and researchers in the Life Sciences area.

Tighter regulations from EU and international bodies emanating from the need to tackle the increasing problem of counterfeiting and patient security will mean that countries will have to adapt to them. With a strong pharmaceutical sector and an increasingly GDP compliant distribution and logistics sector, Ireland is one step ahead of the competition.

To continue to better assist the industry, Life Sciences Ireland is continually training companies to ensure excellence in their operations. With our continued efforts, we look forward to an even more successful Life Sciences export year in 2011.