Northern Ireland's Software Industry Federation (SIF) has unveiled plans to create 15,000 new technology jobs in the region over the next five years.
Its new strategy report, IT's the Future is based closely on the Republic's model for expanding the software industry. If successful the SIF hopes to generate £2 billion sterling (€2.5 billion) in revenues over the five-years.
The strategy features a number of key recommendations, with particular emphasis on improving IT education at schools and university level. It called for the removal of a ceiling on the number of IT university places available, by providing an additional 1,500 places annually.
It also recommends the appointment of a Minister for Information Technology - or eMinister - to oversee the development of high technology industry in Northern Ireland. A central contact point for government agency services was called for through the establishment of a Software Telecoms Directorate. The North's Deputy First Minister, Mr Mallon, welcomed the report and pledged the support of the new executive for the SIF's strategy. Mr First Minister, Mr Trimble said: "An internationally competitive industry can help the rest of the Northern Ireland economy. But we must be prepared and it is important both the public and private sectors work in partnership."
The document was presented to more than 100 IT professionals and representatives from education, business and government in Belfast on Wednesday.
Mr Billy McLean, SIF chief executive, said: "There is a big opportunity for a step change here following on the example of the south. The strategy and the recommendations presented in the report are the plan to make it happen. We're working to catch up, and we have the people available."
