Vol. 458 No. 5
57 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment the steps, if any, being taken to create new employment opportunities arising from developments in the information technology industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14703/95]
61 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment the steps, if any, being taken to create new employment opportunities arising from developments in the information technology industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14704/95]
I propose to take Questions No. 57 and 61 together,
The information technology industry encompasses a number of closely related yet different sectors, particularly electronics, software, telemarketing and multimedia. Ireland has already established itself as one of the most attractive locations in Europe for investment by companies in these sectors. Since the beginning of 1994 IDA Ireland has secured investment totalling £1.468 billion in 45 companies. As a direct result of this investment, 13,000 jobs will be created over the next three years. Shannon Development has approved grants of £5.83 million for 21 companies involving 595 jobs during this period.
Over a similar period, Forbairt approved support for 133 indigenous software companies involving an investment of £14.1 million. A total of over 1100 jobs should be created as a result of this. Also, on the indigenous side, a very positive development has been the emergence of Irish-owned companies which design and manufacture their own proprietary electronics products primarily for export markets. Some of these companies have significant growth potential.
Funds are also being provided under research and development programmes to strengthen our technological base. In particular, our participation in EU information technology research programmes, where in 1995 Irish firms have secured contracts worth £26 million of EU funds, helps develop the technological capability of the sector in general. I am confident that we can look forward to significant further employment creation opportunities in the overall IT industry.
