Enterprise minister engaging with Intel amid reports of global staff cuts

By Gráinne Ní Aodha, PA

Enterprise Minister Peter Burke has said he is continuing to engage with Intel amid reports of planned staff cuts.

Bloomberg News reported that more than 20 per cent of staff globally are to be laid off.

The US tech firm’s European manufacturing base has been in Leixlip, Co Kildare since 1989.

Intel said it has invested €30 billion into the campus and has 4,900 employees in Ireland.

The company opened its Fab 34 facility in 2023 after an investment of €17 billion.

“I continue to engage with Intel, supported by colleagues in IDA Ireland, ahead of the company’s Q1 financial results being announced tomorrow night,” Mr Burke said.

“We have a very strong relationship with management in Intel, both in Ireland and the US, with the company investing significantly here over the last 35 years, most recently opening Fab 34 in 2023 with an investment of 17 billion euro.

“Ireland continues to play an important role in Intel’s plans as the European hub for manufacturing semiconductors, and we don’t see speculation around headcount reduction changing this.

“We continue to partner with Intel in areas of research and innovation and our upcoming National Semiconductor Strategy launch will further enhance this important sector.

“I appreciate speculation is very difficult for staff in Leixlip, and we will continue our engagement with management over the coming weeks and months.”

Intel has been contacted for comment.

Social Democrats TD for Kildare North Aidan Farrelly said the minister should clarify that State supports for workers will be available and in place immediately, should they be required.

“Intel has invested significantly in Leixlip, where it employs almost 5,000 people. Those workers and their families deserve to know its plans for the future,” he said.

“Despite the grim headlines today, there is reason for optimism in Leixlip given the huge investment Intel has made in its plant and the high-tech manufacturing that takes place there.”

Fianna Fáil TD for Kildare North Naoise O Cearuil expressed “deep concern” at the reported cuts.

“This is a deeply difficult and uncertain time for employees in Intel and for their families, particularly those based in Kildare,” he said.

“My thoughts are with all of them today as they face this worrying news. Intel has been a major employer in Kildare for decades, and its presence is central to the local economy.”