IDA: CAO applicants should focus on technology courses

CAO applicants should look at courses in science, engineering, maths or languages, according to the IDA.

The Industrial Development Authority has said those are the skills multinational companies in Ireland most need.

The sector generated 13,000 new jobs in the last twelve months, and according to the IDA's research, nearly half of them intend to increase employment in the next twelve months.

Brendan McDonagh, the head of Planning and Strategy with IDA Ireland said: "IDA companies grew 13,000 jobs in 2011 and our message to students looking to complete their CAO applications is to focus on those courses that offer qualifications - science, engineering, technology and maths - and also to look at courses that include a multi-lingual element.

"They provide the best opportunites for securing employment."