Friday, February 27, 2009

Intel Shannon Announcement Boosts Region’s ICT Sector

Junior Minister Tony Killeen T.D. has described Intel’s decision to invest over 50 million euro in a major expansion at its Shannon Free Zone operation as a “major boost” for the Midwest Region’s information and communication technology sector.

Minister Killeen said the announcement could also lead to the creation of 134 new jobs at the multinational’s Research and Development facility. “Intel’s decision to invest further in its Shannon operations confirms the Free Zone’s position as the flagship location for international industry in this Region,” he added.

Minister Killeen continued, “I am delighted that this multi-million euro investment could grow Intel’s Shannon workforce by up to 134 new jobs over the next 4 years, bringing the total employment to approximately 300. The creation of so many jobs would undoubtedly instil greater confidence among other ICT firms to consider investing in the Shannon Free Zone, which remains a competitive location for high tech knowledge based investment on a global scale.”

The Clare T.D. noted that knowledge was now the key to competitive advantage in smart economies. “Growing the level of Research and Development investment by new and existing multinationals in Ireland is a key Government priority. Intel’s investment gives very real meaning to our ambition to develop Ireland’s smart economy, and is a wonderful testament to the highly talented skills base at Intel Shannon. The Government is delighted to have played its part, through Shannon Development, in supporting this very significant investment,” concluded Minister Killeen.