Facebook To Expand Dublin HQ

Facebook has said it is to expand its international headquarters in Dublin.

The social networking site will move to new office space – 120,000sq ft – in Grand Canal Square in the city as part of the expansion.

The extra space will hold up to 1,000 employees, allowing the firm to double its current staff numbers.

The additional support will allow Facebook to grow its operations, including user operations, database engineering, server support, public policy, safety and marketing.

The company's headquarters are currently located in Hanover Quay. It has been based in the building since 2009, but the lease is due to run out in mid-2014.

Minister for Jobs, Richard Bruton TD, welcomed the announcement and said it was "further confirmation of Ireland's status as the internet capital of Europe."

He added: "Great credit is owed to the IDA who worked tirelessly on this project. I know from our frequent meetings with Facebook on investment missions how significant this project is for the company, and how important Ireland is as its international base. I wish them every success in their new home."

Sonia Flynn, Director of Site for Facebook Ireland added: "We started pretty small, but now there are hundreds of Facebook people working hard to keep the service running, keep people safe and help other businesses grow.

"It's been incredible to see the rise of Silicon Docks here in Dublin, and we hope that when we open our new space down the road, we'll be able to invite hundreds more talented people to come join us."

(JP/IT)