Sounds like he is going to get a lot of experience on the technical side working on the development of a bike. That knowledge can only make him a better all rounder in the years to come.
Does anybody know if he will be riding the bike in Irish road races? If he isn't I guess he will be on a proven product that will allow him to run at or near the front on the domestic scene but this Norton job is all positive for him, both profile wise and gaining experience.
If he stays injury free he has all the time in the world to add to his international wins.
All the best Michael, go for it.