The electronics industry has had stunning success with accelerating growth over the past 15 years. The Republic has become a global player of substance in the sector - yet the number of Irish students studying science and technology subjects in second level schools has been declining.
Cork Institute of Technology is attempting to reverse the trend and the Tanaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Ms Harney, this week saluted its publication of the `Silicon Isle 2000' poster, showing the extent and range of the electronics industry in Ireland.
Published by the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at CIT and sponsored by Parthus Technologies, it is being circulated to all second level schools to encourage interest in science and technology subjects. There are more than 300 electronics companies in the sector employing more than 35,000 people.
As part of the CIT's programme to encourage interest in technology subjects, each electronic company, as listed by IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland and Shannon Development, is cited. Students can immediately identify the companies in their own region, county or town, helping to give a focus for their studies. The map was developed by department staff member Mr Fergus O Reilly, with the aid of Raven Design.
CIT has over 800 students studying and researching electrical and electronic engineering and maintains active and vibrant links with the electronics industry. Parthus Technologies is an Irish company specialising in Internet and communication technologies. It employs over 300 people in Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Belfast.
Ms Harney said the map would help increase the knowledge of the electronics industry in the various regions among students. "More importantly, it will generate interest in and enthusiasm for the industry among students, encouraging them to think of it in terms of a career choice."
It would also show "the opportunities to get involved in these most modern and exciting sectors are on their doorsteps". Given the skills shortages predicted for the electronics sector and other sectors, any initiative which encouraged a take-up of positions in these industries is to be welcomed, she added.
