Tech firm Motorola Solutions has announced the opening of its new Global Research and Development Centre in Cork which will focus on software designed to help increase the safety and efficiency of first responders.
The centre will work on the company’s land mobile radio portfolio — which include devices such as walkie-talkies and base stations for two-way radio transmissions. The new centre is supported by the Government through IDA Ireland.
Along with other devices, Motorola Solutions produce Tetra radio communications systems, which is already in use by gardaí and several emergency services across the country.
The company has hired nearly 200 employees based at Navigation Square in Cork City, with roles spanning software engineering, design, development, testing, quality assurance and management.
Executive vice-president and chief technology officer at Motorola Solutions Mahesh Saptharishi said the work at Navigation Square “underscores our relentless commitment to mission-critical communications that public safety agencies trust in their most demanding moments.”
The centre was opened by Taoiseach Micheál Martin on Friday, who said the investment “reinforces” Ireland’s reputation as a “global hub for the technology sector, where world-class engineers can solve some of the most complex challenges of the modern era”.
“Knowing the depth of expertise in Cork, I look forward to the groundbreaking advancements in public safety technology that will undoubtedly result,” he said.
Business group Cork Chamber also welcomed the opening of the new centre by Motorola.
Chief executive of Cork Chamber Conor Healy said the opening of the facility, as well as a recently announced expansion of EY’s offices in Cork, demonstrated “strong confidence in the region’s economic performance and capability”.
“They also highlight the breadth of activity within Cork’s business ecosystem, supported by the continued work of agencies such as IDA Ireland in attracting and enabling high-value investment across multiple industries. These are welcome milestones for Cork and further strengthen the region’s position as a leading location for innovation and business growth.”
