Cork, Ireland – May 19, 2025
The Tyndall National Institute played host to a landmark moment in Ireland’s tech future with the launch of “Silicon Island: A National Semiconductor Strategy.” The event, led by Minister Peter Burke, brought together industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers to unveil a bold roadmap for Ireland’s role in the global semiconductor ecosystem.
Among the standout voices was Siobhán ní Chofaigh, CEO and co-founder of Mint-Tek, who delivered a compelling address on the importance of educating and building talent pipeline while increasing the presence of women in the semiconductor value chain as well as retention of skillset. Representing the startup and SME community, Ní Chofaigh emphasized the need for accessible pathways to hardware prototyping within the semiconductor industry.
Her remarks resonated with the event’s broader themes: fostering start-up growth, commercialisation support, and deepening R&D capacity. She joined a distinguished panel that included:
- Minister Peter Burke, Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment
- Anne-Marie Tierney-Le Roux, IDA Ireland
- Paul Kelleher, Qualcomm
- Denis Doyle, Tyndall National Institute
- John Mackey, MBRYONICS
Together, they outlined how Ireland aims to secure leading-edge fabrication facilities, support spinouts, and build a future-ready talent pipeline. The strategy aligns with the European Chips Act and includes over €70 million in national and EU funding already earmarked for pilot projects
The event also marked the formation of a Semiconductor Advisory Council, which will guide the strategy’s implementation and ensure collaboration across academia, industry, and government.
As Ní Chofaigh put it, “Ireland has the talent and the tenacity. Now we have the strategy.”
See Some Pics from the Event Below
See Some Key Articles on the Strategy
For those interested in exploring the broader context and strategic vision behind Ireland’s semiconductor ambitions, check out these foundational documents:
- [Silicon Island: A National Semiconductor Strategy (PDF)]
This is Ireland’s official roadmap for becoming a global leader in semiconductor innovation, manufacturing, and talent development. It outlines the country’s goals under the European Chips Act and includes case studies from companies like AMD, Qualcomm, and Mint-Tek.
- [Mapping of Ireland’s Semiconductor and Microelectronics Industry (PDF)]]
A comprehensive mapping of Ireland’s semiconductor ecosystem, detailing the value chain, global positioning, and the presence of key players across design, manufacturing, and R&D.
