Software group wants tax incentives

The Irish Software Association (ISA) has warned the Government against curtailing any tax incentives aimed at supporting the growth of indigenous Irish software companies.

The ISA said raising funds was a crucial element in encouraging entrepreneurial activity in the sector, but programmes such as the business expansion or seed capital schemes were necessary to attract investors.

“Opportunities exist for Ireland to continue to develop software companies who are capable of dominating niche markets,” said ISA director Michele Quinn.

“However, the sector is now facing significant challenges including lack of early stage funding and increasing threats from emerging low-cost software economies.”