Nortel Invests US$ 5 Million In Galway, Ireland Customer And Technology Center

GALWAY, Ireland - Nortel* [NYSE/TSX: NT] opened its new global Customer and Technology Center at its Mervue campus in Galway, Ireland. Nortel has invested US$5 million in the new Center which is responsible for developing customer contact center applications for markets around the world. Today’s opening also marks Nortel’s celebration of 25 years of research and development in the Galway area.

The new Center is developing contact center solutions focused on ensuring customer enquiries to businesses are answered as quickly and efficiently as possible, incorporating multimedia capabilities such as instant messaging and video. The Center will also showcase applications that provide customers with the opportunity to participate in demonstrations tailored specifically for verticals markets such as healthcare, education and finance.

At a Nortel Galway campus ceremony today, the Centre was officially opened by Frank Fahey, Teachta Dala (TD), Minister of State at the Department of Justice, Quality and Law Reform. The ceremony was attended by Darryl Edwards, president, EMEA, Nortel as well as Nortel customers and employees. Local dignitaries and guests from Galway’s business and political communities also attended.

“This is a great day for Nortel and Galway because it underscores the global importance of the role that the Galway campus plays for the company,” said Edwards in his remarks at the Center’s opening. “The Technology and Customer Center is part of our multi-million dollar investment in the region and our talented Galway team.”

“Nortel should be congratulated for its commitment to Galway over the last 25 years,” said Minister Fahey. “Nortel has developed rapidly since its arrival here and we are delighted that its Irish-based operation is continuing to play a key role in its global transformation. Today’s opening speaks volumes to the depth, quality, expertise and loyalty of the Irish workforce in the West region.”

Nortel began operations in Galway in 1973. A research and development team was established in 1982. Today, its Galway campus has global responsibility for one of Nortel’s most sophisticated technologies - multimedia contact centers. The solutions have enhanced customer service for companies worldwide including: Lloyds TSB, Fossil and Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust.

“Nortel in Ireland has evolved significantly over the past 25 years,” said Dave Quane, managing director for Nortel, Ireland. “Today’s opening is testimony to the innovation and expertise this facility is expected to deliver to Nortel.”