Since the 1960s, Ireland has developed a globally significant life sciences industry, including the pharmaceutical/chemical, biopharmaceuticals, medical devices and diagnostics sectors. Each of these sectors is represented in Ireland by industry leaders such as Pfizer, GlaxoSmithKline, Takeda, Merck, Genzyme, Gilead, Medtronic, Boston Scientific, Abbott and many others. Today, the Irish life science industry consists of over 170 companies. A modern specialist infrastructure has grown up to support and develop these industry sectors and activities. This, combined with a good operating environment, full access to the European market and fiscal advantages, makes Ireland the location of choice of many companies.