Chinese firm gives jobs boost to Dundalk

Dozens of jobs are to be created in the north east after a Chinese manufacturing company today announced it was locating its European base in Dundalk.

SATIR is one of the world’s top providers of infrared technology and its move to Ireland marks the country’s first major investment by a Chinese company.

Over five years 40 skilled jobs will be created and Enterprise Minister Mary Coughlan said the move was a breakthrough for the Industrial Development Agency.

Justice Minister Dermot Ahern, in whose constituency the base will be located, described the announcement as great news for Dundalk.

“I am pleased to welcome SATIR to Ireland as the first IDA-supported Chinese company to locate here and also the first company to manufacture infrared cameras here,” Ms Coughlan said.

“Today’s announcement is novel and a breakthrough for IDA’s efforts in Shanghai.

“I am confident that this is the beginning of a fruitful and successful partnership with the Chinese business community to match the best of Irish capabilities and talents to the needs of Chinese investors.”

SATIR, set up in 1989, is China’s leading thermal imaging system manufacturer.

The company develops, produces and markets infrared cameras for use in a range of industrial and commercial thermal imaging activities, including firefighting, law enforcement, and medicine.

The Dundalk operation – SAT Europe – will act as a logistics hub for the Europe, Middle East and African (EMEA) markets, and will manage the marketing, finance and after sales service.

SATIR board chairman Jiping Wu said Dundalk was chosen because it best suited the company’s needs.

“SAT Europe will take control of the existing distribution channels that SATIR has already established in Europe.

“The Irish operation will better serve existing customers and grow our customer base in EMEA.

“It will also allow us to build higher specification cameras for EMEA and US markets.”

Mr Ahern, TD for Louth, welcomed the announcement.

“This new facility represents the first major investment by a Chinese operation in Ireland,” he said.

“It is great news for Dundalk following on the Diageo announcement and illustrates how the area offers great opportunities thanks to its educated workforce, location and communications and transport links.”