Tourist experience brings 22 tech jobs to Valentia

An American who fell in love with Valentia, Co Kerry, on a visit 12 years ago is to set up an enterprise on the island, leading to 22 new jobs.

Thomas Mastaglio, managing director of the Mymic Global computer technology company, yesterday said the company will set up in the former premises of the Valentia Island Cable Company, with the immediate creation of five jobs.

The US-based multinational provides safety training software products for maritimeindustries and plans to move into the offshore wind and wave energy areas.

The IDA is grant-aiding the project, which plans to have a 22-strong workforce in Valentia by 2016.

Dr Mastaglio, who has a home on the island, said Mymic Global would shortly be recruiting technology and sales teams which would be focusing on the Irish, British, and European markets.

“My wife and I fell in love with Valentia when we first came here,” he said. “Valentia adopted us and this is something that should help the economy of the island. We’re very optimistic about it.”

The Virginia-headquartered company specialises in hi-tech simulation and visualisation products.

The announcement was welcomed by Anthony O’Connell, chairman of the Valentia Island Development Company, who said the development would bring new energy to the area.

“This is a fantastic day for the island. The development will also help revitalise the old cable station where jobs are already being created in the renovation of the building,’’ said Mr O’Connell.

“’We started on this road three years ago and this year has seen a culmination of a lot of effort over that time.’’

Mr O’Connell said a lot of positive developments had taken place in Valentia recently.

He cited the retention of 17 jobs at the local Coastguard station, the retention of Valentia Hospital, and the securing of an important contract at the Westminster Parliament buildings by Valentia Slate Quarries.

“There’s a lot of push and drive in this community. We won’t stand idly by and watch our community getting decimated,’’ he said.

The old Valentia Island lighthouse also opened as a tourist attraction, at the weekend.