Motorola Solutions is opening a new research and development centre in Cork, which is expected to lead to the creation of up to 200 jobs.
The R&D centre will focus on designing software for the company’s land mobile radio (LMR) products, with plans for expansion across other technologies in the future.
LMR networks are used by governments and organisations for highly secure communications and are designed to work in the most extreme conditions.
Motorola Solutions has invested more than $12 billion in R&D and acquisitions over the past decade and its strategy is now centred around safety and security.
The US company has deployed more than 13,000 LMR networks worldwide, which now use broadband and other advanced data based technology.
“Decade after decade, the durability of our mission-critical LMR technology helps protect those who protect us all,” said Greg Brown, chairman and CEO, Motorola Solutions.
“Our new centre in Cork will contribute to advancing our future vision for LMR, while building upon the collective impact of our more than 20,000 employees who are innovating what’s next for our customers around the world.”
The investment is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland.
US Ambassador to Ireland, Claire Cronin, said Motorola Solutions is an iconic American company known for its work over many decades to support public safety and first responders.
“Today’s announcement of its new Research and Development Centre in Cork marks a significant step forward in the company’s commitment to Ireland and in further expanding its innovation footprint in technology that plays a vital role around the world to help keep people safe, today and in the future,” she said.
“It also recognises the highly skilled talent in Ireland and further bolsters the strong trade and investment relationships between the United States and Ireland.”
The new R&D centre in Cork city centre is focused on delivering the emergency services’ secure communications network, Ireland’s National Digital Radio Service.
“Regional investment is a priority for Government and the creation of 200 highly skilled jobs in R&D is a significant boost for the region,” said Minister for Enterprise, Peter Burke.
“The new Centre will be a welcome addition to the already thriving city centre and will provide exciting new work opportunities for technology talent. It is encouraging to see new investments in R&D technologies, which is very much in line with our National AI and Digital strategies.”
Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland, described the investment as an important vote of confidence in the technology sector.
“The company’s plans to create 200 new jobs demonstrates Ireland’s ability to win strategic investments from global leaders looking for a location that can provide a talented and skilled workforce and a track record in delivering innovative, and pro-business environment for multinational companies,” he said.