Hi-tech dependence ‘may threaten jobs’

IRELAND’S economic dependency on hi-tech industry could threaten thousands of jobs, employers warned yesterday.

IBEC director Brendan Butler warned that the IT, electronics and pharmaceutical sectors would face increased competition from new EU countries next year.

Ireland’s reliance on hi-tech industry for job creation has been underscored by a new EU survey which shows that 30% of all workers in manufacturing are involved in these sectors.