IBEC launches strategy paper for ICT sector

A strategy vision for the ICT [Information and Communications Technology] sector in Ireland 2002-2005 has been launched by IBEC.

The Chairman of ICT Ireland, Kevin Dillon [MD, European Operations Centre and Vice President, EMEA, Microsoft Corporation] said that while the sector globally had a bright future, we must be realistic and accept that as a relatively high cost location Ireland was already losing lower technologies to lower cost locations overseas, and this trend is set to continue.

To remain an attractive location for the sector a certain amount of re-structuring was required.

Among the key recommendations were an expansion of ICT-related research in 3rd level institutions, the setting up of a national research institute for ICT and an increase in 2nd level students taking Science and Mathematics.

It also recommended that broadband access should be provided to all business parks and towns of 3,000 people and over by the end 2004.

Mr Dillon concluded that as the medium to long term prospects for the sector are good "The key question is whether we take appropriate action now to ensure Ireland benefits from the upturn in the ICT market."