Minister O'Keeffe announced the jobs at the opening of a new €8 million aluminium extrusion plant in Architectural and Metal Systems (AMS) based in Little Island, Co Cork.
The plant is the first of its kind in Ireland.
The new jobs are supported by the Government through Enterprise Ireland.
Aluminium extrusion is a process which produces lengths of precision aluminium profiles which are the essential raw material for aluminium window and door-makers, engineers and sign manufacturers.
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AMS, established in Cork 20 years ago, employs 66 workers making aluminium products such as curtain walling, window and door systems and related components.
The new extrusion plant will give AMS control of extruded aluminium - its key raw material - helping the firm to boost exports and improve competitiveness.
The plant will also be able to supply other Irish firms which until now have depended on imported extruded aluminium profiles.
The €8 million investment is in addition to a previous €4 million spend on a state-of-the-art powder paint-coating line in the firm.
Announcing the 31 jobs, Minister O’Keeffe described AMS as an "ambitious export-led Irish firm that put innovation at the heart of its business growth model".
He said: "AMS has responded to the call for economic recovery by implementing an ambitious investment plan based on cutting-edge technology with a strong export-based focus.
"The result is an important jobs boost for Cork and enhanced competitiveness for other Irish firms that will soon be able to source aluminium extrusion products here at home.
"Our economic recovery will be export-led and AMS’ expansion plan is a paradigm other Irish firms should follow with Government support as we continue to tackle unemployment, create jobs, drive competitiveness and return to growth."
(CD/KMcA)
