The headquarters of Almac Diagnostics, a division of the Almac Group, was officially opened today by renowned oncologist Dr Martin Murphy. Almac Diagnostics is based within the company’s headquarters in Craigavon, Northern Ireland, with additional facilities in Durham, North Carolina. Almac Chairman Sir Allen McClay has hailed today's opening as a "significant step forward for Almac".
Alongside Dr Murphy, other guests included Upper Bann MLA David Simpson, Meta Crozier, the Mayor of Craigavon, managing director of Clients and Entrepreneurship Group for Invest NI, Ian Murphy, and other business representatives.
Welcoming the guests group chairman Sir Allen McClay said: "This is a milestone day for Almac which cements our position as a world-leading pharmaceutical and biotech service company. The diagnostics division develops and delivers genomic solutions for the advancement of science and the improvement of patient care. From our base here in Northern Ireland we are making a major contribution in particular to cancer research. We have a strong relationship with Dr Martin Murphy who has been a friend to Almac since we were founded. It is an honour and a pleasure to have this building dedicated to Dr Murphy and to host him and his family today."
Dr Murphy said: "The fight against cancer is an international crusade which is led by talented, energetic and committed people and organisations. One of those organisations is Almac and I am honoured to have worked with the people behind this organisation for a number of years. The people of Northern Ireland really should be proud of the work which goes on at this site. It is no exaggeration to say that thanks to those working at Almac, Northern Ireland is now at the forefront of cancer research. I want to thank Sir Allen McClay, Professor Paddy Johnston and all of their colleagues for their support and I am proud to open the Marty Murphy building."
