Photo details, left to right Peter Devine, Ulster University; Dr Nick Timmons, Atlantic Technological University; Dr Orla Flynn, President, Atlantic Technological University; Dr Mark Gubbins, Seagate Technology; Prof William Scanlon, Tyndall National Institute, at the launch of the SPEAR Centre in Letterkenny.

The SPEAR Centre (Semiconductor Photonics Education and Research Centre) has been launched at the Atlantic Technological University (ATU) campus in Letterkenny, Co Donegal.

This project is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). It will be led by Atlantic Technological University through its WiSAR Lab in partnership with Ulster University, the Tyndall National Institute at University College Cork, and Seagate Technology. It represents a total investment of €8.46 million.

Semiconductor and Photonics Innovation at SPEAR Centre

SPEAR Centre has been designed to position the Northwest as a hub for semiconductor and photonics innovation. The project will align with the EU Chips Act and Ireland's Smart Specialisation Strategy, embedding advanced technology capabilities into the regional economy and strengthening cross-border collaboration.

Over the coming years, SPEAR will deliver on three key pillars. A Doctoral College will train the next generation of PhD researchers in photonics, artificial intelligence, and semiconductor technologies. An Innovation Fund will support research and development across at least nine regional SMEs, enabling them to integrate cutting-edge technology into their operations. A Strategic Engagement Programme will foster collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers while raising public awareness of the potential of advanced technologies.

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.

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke TD said: "The launch of the SPEAR Centre marks a significant milestone in our ambition to lead in advanced manufacturing and semiconductor innovation. By aligning with the EU Chips Act and our national Smart Specialisation Strategy, this initiative will not only drive regional economic growth but also ensure that SMEs and researchers are at the forefront of global technological development. I commend the collaborative spirit behind this project and look forward to the transformative impact it will have on the North West and beyond."

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA said: ""Today's launch moves us a step closer to creating a global centre of excellence for semiconductor photonics in the North West. This is an ambition we are already well on our way to achieving; with the excellent partnerships long established here between our universities and industry. As Economy Minister, I am committed to working with partners right across this island, to deliver on my economic vision, with innovation at its heart. This investment will enhance the region's attractiveness to inward investment, supporting the creation of more new, Good Jobs."

SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre said: "This PEACEPLUS project is designed to transform the North West through cutting-edge research, innovation, and enterprise development.

"It represents an investment in technology and education and also in people, in places, and in the shared future of the cross-border region. Through cross-border collaboration - between ATU, Ulster University, and Tyndall National Institute - this will strengthen the bonds of shared progress.

"This project marks a new chapter for regional innovation, for cross-border partnership, and for this island's place in a fast-changing technological world. Empowering SMEs and growing high-tech sectors helps give people the opportunity to stay in the Northwest and this, in turn, helps create the conditions for a sustainable, inclusive peace."Atl...