I thank the Deputy for raising this important matter. He is absolutely right to highlight the importance of this sector, particularly for the communities he represents in north Kildare, such as Leixlip, which has played a central role in Ireland’s technological success. The Government and I completely recognise the importance of this strategic sector. That is why in May 2025, the Minister, Deputy Burke, launched Silicon Island: Ireland’s National Semiconductor Strategy, which aims to make Ireland a global leader in semiconductors. Through a successful implementation of its three pillars - building on our strong ecosystem, developing skills and talent, and identifying and seizing opportunities - Silicon Island promises to deliver for multinational and indigenous Irish companies alike. Significant progress has been made in implementing the strategy over the past year. Already, over €70 million in combined national and EU funding has been secured for the Tyndall National Institute’s participation in three European pilot lines under the European Chips Act. The national competence centre for semiconductors, I-C3, is now operational as part of a European-wide network, providing SMEs and researchers with access to world-class expertise, pilot production lines, design platforms, funding supports and training. The expert group on future skills needs has commenced a specific study on the semiconductor sector, which is due to be published in quarter 3 of this year. This is in addition to the next generation sites initiatives, which is being led by IDA Ireland to deliver large-scale, fully serviced industrial sites to secure and accommodate future semiconductor investments. Through increased investment in Ireland’s R and D capabilities, training and upskilling our current and future workforce, scaling our SME sector and strengthening our competitiveness, this strategy will continue to support existing and future investments in Ireland’s semiconductor sector. Indeed, the strategy is already delivering for companies in Ireland, with a number of companies, including Openchip and Qualcomm, making major investment announcements in recent months. However, there is still more to do as a Government to advance this fast-growing sector, and the launch of the advisory council to the semiconductor sector will mark further progress on the next phase of the Silicon Island’s implementation. This industry-led forum will support the ongoing growth and development of the sector and assist in making Ireland and Irish companies world leaders in this vital technological sector.

Sentiment score: 0.47

I thank the Deputy for raising this important matter and for his work on the artificial intelligence committee, alongside the critical infrastructure committee. We recognise the importance Intel brings, not just to Leixlip and Kildare but also to Ireland in general. It is the cornerstone of Ireland's semiconductor ecosystem and one of the most significant industrial investments in the history of the State. It is one of the largest private sector employers, and we need to continue to support it through the Government, the IDA and Enterprise Ireland. We remain actively engaged with Intel to ensure it can continue to grow but it is also supported through its competitiveness, talent development and investment. I know the Deputy has had continuous engagement with the Minister, Deputy Burke, on that. Getting back to Sillicon Island, it is not simply a strategy document. It is very much a programme of investment in skills, research, infrastructure and competitiveness. We have started from a position of strength, and we need to continue that investment over the long term. That is why we are actively working with European partners on the chips Act 2.0. This will build on progress that has been achieved under the original European Chips Act. As part of our European Presidency, we will work to advance the agenda and strengthen Europe's position on critical semiconductor technologies. That is why the Government is working with IDA Ireland to advance the next generation sites. We want Ireland to continue to be attractive to semiconductor manufacturers, enhancing the big multinationals that are already here. Through the continued support of firms such as Intel and investment in skills and innovation, we can continue to remain at the forefront of Europe's semiconductor future.

Sentiment score: 0.36