Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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22. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will report on his recent engagement with a company (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21535/25]

Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Intel is a significant employer in Ireland, with Ireland being Intel’s centre of manufacturing excellence in Europe.

As a major employer, I, and my officials, have met with representatives from Intel on a number of occasions - both in Leixlip and in California. I have a further meeting with Intel today.

I note the publication of Intel’s Q1 financial results last week and the reported comments from the Intel CEO that they were ‘a step in the right direction’. The comments confirming that there will be a reduction in Intel’s workforce globally, are, of course, very concerning. While no specifics around the number or location of job cuts were flagged, the company have said they plan to reduce operating costs by $500m this year and $1 billion next year, and stated this will include a reduction in the workforce, particularly in management and non-core engineering roles. It is likely to be several weeks before detail is available on the impact of these cost reduction measures.

While we await further specifics on potential downsizing, which is an incredibly anxious time for Intel’s staff, it is positive that the company have stated that they will continue to focus investment on their core business, the manufacturing of semiconductor products. This is the primary activity in Ireland. It is also worth noting that Intel has completed the construction of the most advanced semiconductor manufacturing facility in Europe in Fab 34, in Leixlip which can be central to Intel’s growth recovery strategy.

My Department and I, along with IDA Ireland, will continue to keep in touch with local management. While my thoughts remain with staff and their families, many of whom are extremely concerned, I am also focused on ensuring the continued development of the semiconductors sector in Ireland. It is of strategic importance to Ireland and Europe. Following the Government's consideration last Tuesday, I will launch Silicon Island – Ireland's National Semiconductor Strategy next month to ensure the sector continues to grow and diversify, securing its future and supporting our highly skilled workforce.