MIDAS Ireland, the industry-led organisation established to maximise the economic impact of the microelectronics in Ireland, has announced the findings of a survey conducted amongst member firms indicating the potential to create 2,000 jobs over the next five years.
The microelectronics industry is already a significant employer and major contributor to the economy, employing over 8,000 people in over 50 companies. Over 25% of the roles in the sector are in research and development.
The survey was aimed at identifying employment opportunities and forecasting future trends based on companies’ growth plans. The results found that direct employment within the sector is expected to increase by a further 2,000 during the next five years, with the potential for even more in non-technical support roles.
The findings were endorsed by an announcement from US company ON Semiconductor, that it plans to invest approximately EUR*13 million to expand its design centre in Limerick. The investment is expected to generate 69 new jobs over four years.
Chairman of MIDAS and director of ON Semiconductor’s Limerick design centre, John Blake, said: "The microelectronics sector is uniquely positioned to support Ireland’s economic recovery efforts. With the history of support and investment from the FDI (foreign direct investment) community there is a very strong tradition of excellence in the microelectronics sector – this has subsequently spawned a vibrant start-up community which now includes indigenous companies that range from high potential start-ups to companies that are now exporting and operating at a global level."
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