US chip maker Microsemi is to expand its facility in Ennis, Co Clare, in an investment which is leading to 315 new jobs. The investment is being backed by IDA Ireland, the company said.

The new jobs will be in manufacturing, sales and technical support. Microsemi makes high reliability chips which need to perform under extreme conditions.  

Microsemi CEO James Peterson said the size of the investment was a reflection of the calibre and talent of its existing workforce in Ennis, as well as its faith in the standard of recruits available in the Mid-West region.

Microsemi has been in Ireland since 1992. It has already recruited an extra 115 staff this year, with the remaining 200 to be put in place over the next 18 months.