Microelectronics sector 'to create 2,000 jobs in five years'
US firm ON-Semiconductor is pumping €13m into expanding its Design Centre in Limerick, creating 69 new roles.
The high-value engineering roles are being announced to mark the start of Micro-electronics Week.
A survey by MIDAS forecasts that 2,000 new jobs will be created in the industry over the next five years.
Spokesperson for ON-Semiconductor and MIDAS, John Blake, has said they are sustainable positions.
Mr 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 in Ireland – 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.
"High-end start-ups will be the engine of growth for Ireland’s economic renewal and the microelectronics sector is already well positioned to spearhead these efforts. MIDAS estimates that one third of the 2,000 jobs to be created in the next five years will come from the indigenous community. "
