MINISTER Jimmy Deenihan welcomed progress on a new €20 million advanced technology facility during a visit to Kerry Technology Park today.
He was speaking at the opening of JRI America’s new offices in the Kerry Technology Park.
“I welcome the progress on the new €20 million Advanced Technology Building for Kerry Technology Park, now that planning permission has been lodged by the IDA,” said the Minister, referring to the new facility announced by the IDA early in 2015.
“I’m confident that the planning application for the purpose-designed 25,000 square foot facility will transition smoothly through the planning process, giving Tralee a state-of-the-art, turnkey property solution that will greatly assist with IDA’s efforts to attract Foreign Direct Investment here.”
A planning application was received by Kerry County Council on December 23 from the IDA Ireland for the construction of an advanced technology building and a decision will be made at the beginning of March.
Minister Deenihan performed the official opening of JRI America’s new, state-of-the-art offices at Kerry Technology Park.
“Back in 2011 when I announced the establishment of JRI America’s software development operation, I strongly believed that the location of Tralee would serve them well, in terms of acquiring the skilled workforce needed and benefitting from the business-friendly environment that exists here,” said Deenihan.
“I’m very gratified to see that this has proven the case and that, with these new 14,000 square foot offices, the company is planning strategically for further development into the future.
“That growth is expected to see the workforce expand from its current level of, I understand, almost 70 people. That is terrific news for Tralee and for the wider region,” he said.
Staff at JRI America provide support for a broad range of functions, including Software Development, Quality Assurance, Network Support, Data Centre Support and Technical Customer Service activities.
The Tralee operation supports the group’s Western Hemisphere IT operations, including US, Europe, Moscow, Dubai and other markets. If JRI America can do it, so too can other global companies.
“There is space and scope on this fine Technology Park, some 22 hectares, for businesses. We send out the message today that Tralee, and Kerry, is very much open for business” said Deenihan.
