Microsemi Expansion Sets Example For Other Companies To Follow, Says Minister Killeen

Minister Killeen said it was a welcome move and one that was likely to instil greater confidence in the Mid West region’s manufacturing sector.

He said that the announcement had put in a more positive context the many statements of doom and gloom that greeted the news of job losses at Element Six in Shannon a fortnight ago.

"The company’s decision to expand its operations in Ennis has been achieved because of Government support through IDA Ireland, as well as the efforts of its dynamic management team and highly skilled workforce. Given similar support, I am confident that companies such as Element Six can emulate the success of Microsemi," explained Minister Killeen.

He continued, "This announcement is a wonderful vote of confidence in the entire region and is testament to the depth and quality of the workforce available here. The announcement also indicates a continued improvement in market conditions in the aerospace and commercial satellite sectors for the company's hi-rel products. As a gateway between the European and US marketplaces for Microsemi, the Ennis manufacturing facility can be ensured of its flagship position within the company for many years to come."

"Microsemi Ireland has been in Ennis since 1992, when it acquired the Unitrode facility set up there in 1979. Over the past 16 years the company has made a significant contribution to the local economy and the Irish manufacturing sector. As Minister for Labour Affairs in 2007, I was delighted to announce that the firm had reversed an earlier decision to phase out operations at its manufacturing facility in Ennis. Since then, the analog and mixed-signal chip specialist has continued to grow from strength to strength and, in doing so, has set an example for all other manufacturing-based firms to follow," said Minister Killeen.

Commenting on the recent job losses at Element Six, the Minister stated, "There is no reason, given the high quality of the workforce and by availing of the supports that are in place, that Element Six could not be turned around in an equally positive manner. Furthermore, the company’s considerable presence in Shannon and the inevitable upturn in the industrial diamond sector will facilitate an increase in employment opportunities at the facility in the short to medium term."

Microsemi Corporation, with corporate headquarters in Irvine, California, is a US NASDAQ listed Company that engages in the design, manufacture, and marketing of analog and mixed-signal integrated circuits and semiconductors. The principal markets the company serves include implanted medical, defence/aerospace and satellite, notebook computers, monitors and LCD TVs, automotive and mobile connectivity applications.

Microsemi Ireland concentrates on the manufacture of Hi-reliability discrete power semiconductors for the global Avionics and Aerospace markets. The European Sales Office & Logistics Hub are also located in Ennis and manage the European sales for all other MSCC manufacturing plants that are located in the USA and Asia.

-ENDS-

Mark Dunphy
Dunphy Public Relations
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