Foster congratulates Norbrook on research and development success

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster congratulated Norbrook Laboratories on a new product expected to take the lead within a US$1 billion global market.

The Newry based pharmaceutical company produces a vast portfolio of products for the global veterinary and medical markets. In 2004 Norbrook, with £210,000 of research and development (R&D) support from Invest Northern Ireland (Invest NI) and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), embarked on a complex research project.

The primary focus was the investigation of novel application methods and drug combinations for the treatment of a range of internal parasites, including liverfluke, which impact severely on the health and productivity of dairy and beef herds.

After more than five years of challenging research and clinical trials, the innovative new product, called Closamectin Pour-on Solution, was launched today by Norbrook’s Executive Chairman, The Lord Ballyedmond OBE.

Congratulating The Lord Ballyedmond on the launch of the new product, Arlene Foster said: “Norbrook is a home grown company which has worked at the forefront of the veterinary pharmaceutical market since its inception in 1968. Research and development activities have been integral to Norbrook’s global success and in securing its reputation for clinical excellence.

“This innovative new product, developed with support from Invest NI, provides the international agriculture sector with a treatment which combines effective disease control with ease of use, significantly enhancing the treatment and control of parasites that can potentially devastate dairy and cattle herds.

“With a global market estimated at over $1 billion, Norbrook has once again set the bar for research excellence in the veterinary pharmaceutical sector. This launch proves the long term value of investment in new product development and innovation, a focus which will continue to increase Norbrook’s competitiveness in the future, as well as highlight local capability on an international stage.”

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