Longford Westmeath Minister Peter Burke launches 'Silicon Island'

Ireland’s new Semiconductor Strategy, Silicon Island has been officially launched by Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke at a special industry event. This major new initiative is designed to strengthen Ireland’s role in the global semiconductor industry and fulfil a key Programme for Government commitment.

Aligned with the European Chips Act the EU Digital Decade, Silicon Island: A National Semiconductor Strategy sets out a clear roadmap to grow Ireland’s semiconductor sector by creating high-value jobs, attracting major investment and deepening the country’s leadership in cutting-edge technology as a key player in Europe’s semiconductor future.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Burke said:

“We’re setting our sights on the next frontier: semiconductors. Ireland already has a strong semiconductor base, with over 130 indigenous and multinational companies, 20,000 jobs and €13.5 billion in annual exports.  But with the right support, I believe we could do far more. By 2040, Ireland could support up to 34,500 new semiconductor roles.”

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Developed through public consultation with industry, academia, government and research partners, Silicon Island focuses on expanding the sector’s ecosystem, building a future-ready talent pipeline and seizing emerging opportunities across advanced manufacturing, design, and R&D.  The strategy recognises the semiconductor industry as a crucial enabler of innovation and digital growth.  Key objectives include:

1. securing major industrial investments, including a leading-edge fabrication facility in a regional location,
2. supporting start-ups and spinouts through access to finance and commercialisation pathways, 
3.  strengthening research capacity and promoting Ireland internationally as a hub of semiconductor excellence. 

Minister Burke noted the strategic importance of Silicon Island, saying:

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“From AI to quantum computing and the green transition, semiconductors are at the core of global innovation. This strategy is Ireland’s commitment to helping deliver on the European Chips Act and to becoming a global leader in this vital sector. Ireland is turning to chips as the next big opportunity.”

“Much of the work to achieve our ambitions is already under way. We have already earmarked over €70 million in national and EU funding for Tyndall’s participation in three EU Pilot Lines. We have established I-C3 – a national competence centre under the European Chips Act – and joined forces with Analog Devices and 14 EU Member States in the IPCEI on Microelectronics.

“The work does not end here. The deliverables set out in this Strategy will be guided by a dedicated industry-led Semiconductor Advisory Council.

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“While we are in a position of strength, we must go further. This Strategy aims to put Ireland firmly at the forefront of the global semiconductor industry, and marks the start of a journey towards Ireland and Irish companies becoming world leaders in this this vital technology.  We’re ready to lead”. 

Professor William Scanlon, CEO, Tyndall National Institute said: 

“I welcome the publication of the strategy and the Government’s support and ambition for the semiconductor industry and ecosystem in Ireland. As the national institute for semiconductors, Tyndall is proud to play our part in the delivery of the strategy through collaborative research and innovation and the development of talent and skills.”