Press Release

Shire plc News Alert Shire begins external search for President of successful Human Genetic Therapies business, on retirement of David Pendergast at the end of 2007

20 Mar 2007 - Basingstoke, UK and Philadelphia, US – March 20, 2007 – Shire plc (LSE: SHP, NASDAQ: SHPGY, TSX: SHQ) announces that David Pendergast, President of Shire Human Genetic Therapies (HGT) business, is to retire at the end of 2007 and that it has commenced an external search for his replacement. In beginning the search now, Shire anticipates a smooth transfer of responsibilities to a high calibre candidate.

David has led Shire’s HGT business since its acquisition as Transkaryotic Therapies Inc (TKT) in 2005. During his leadership, HGT has become a key business unit of Shire expanding capabilities into biotechnology and establishing a growth engine for the future.

David has built a strong management team that is executing a strategy of building a world-leading human genetic therapies business. New premises are now being sought to accommodate the growth needs of the business. Shire’s HGT business currently employs approximately 600 people worldwide operating in 20 countries and expects to recruit another 270 people over the next twelve months.

Comments Matthew Emmens, Chief Executive Officer of Shire plc:

“David’s contribution to Shire has been very significant. As the leader of our HGT business and as a member of the Shire Management Committee, he has consistently set stretch goals and ensured the team has delivered on them – reflected in how the business is now expanding. Our HGT business is in excellent shape and by commencing the search for his replacement now we are confident that we will both attract a similarly high calibre individual to David and ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities.”

Adds David Pendergast, President of Shire HGT:

“I am committed to ensuring continued performance during 2007 and a smooth leadership transition at this exciting time in HGT’s development and growth. After over thirty years in the pharmaceuticals business I am pleased that next year I will be able to spend more time with my family and to pursue intellectual and personal goals long subjugated to my career.”