THE new €8.46M SPEAR Centre (Semiconductor Photonics Education and Research Centre) was launched yesterday at Atlantic Technological University, Letterkenny.
Supported by the PEACEPLUS Programme, SPEAR will position the North West as a hub for semiconductor and photonics innovation, driving regional economic growth and strengthening cross-border collaboration.
The centre is a huge boost for the region and will in turn create business and employment for the area.
At the launch, leaders highlighted the transformative potential of this investment:
Minister Peter Burke TD called it “a significant milestone in our ambition to lead in advanced manufacturing and semiconductor innovation.”
ATU President Dr Orla Flynn emphasised SPEAR as “a commitment to regional transformation.”
The project launch, which took place yesterday, brought together a wide range of stakeholders from across the island, including academic experts, industry leaders, regional SMEs, and government representatives.
Audience members at the launch of the SPEAR Centre in Letterkenny.
L–R: Seamus Carroll, IDA Ireland; Dr Orla Flynn, President, Atlantic Technological University; Dr Nick Timmons, Atlantic Technological University, at the launch of the SPEAR Centre in Letterkenny.
Dr Orla Flynn, President of Atlantic Technological University, addressing the audience at the launch of the SPEAR Centre in Letterkenny.