Ireland Recognised as key European Location for Electronics Industry -Tánaiste

Indigenous Electronics Industry a Major Growth Sector - Harney

Tánaiste Mary Harney today (Wednesday 8th September, 1999) officially opened Nepcon Electronics Ireland Exhibition at the Point Depot, Dublin.

The Tánaiste welcomed Nepcon Ireland back to Dublin for its second year and said "the huge success of last years exhibition is an excellent sign for both the electronics manufacturing industry and the Irish economy. The scale of this exhibition which has attracted over 200 exhibitors is a clear indication of the success of this industry in Ireland and the opportunities available to enterprising companies".

Electronics manufacturing companies in Ireland employ over 42,000 people in over 300 companies. In addition, the software sector accounts for a further 22,000 jobs. "We have built strategic strength in the electronics and software sectors and now have world class examples of success and achievement by both indigenous and foreign owned firms," the Tánaiste said.

Electronic companies in Ireland, manufacture and market a wide range of leading edge products generating around IR£11 billion in exports per annum. They are involved in diverse product areas such as PC and semiconductor manufacturing, component, network products and sub-assembly production, software design and development, R&D and technical support. The sector generates expenditures of approximately IR£2 billion per annum in the Irish economy of which purchases of Irish-made components and supplies are worth £600 million.

"The number and quality of overseas electronic firms, who have chosen Ireland as a manufacturing base over the past decade, is a strong endorsement of the strength, depth and maturity of the technological sector in the country. Some 25% of greenfield electronic manufacturing investment in Europe comes to Ireland and, in software, we are the prime location in Europe for new investment. Key factors in this success are the availability of a well educated English speaking workforce, excellent skills, competitive operating environment and sub-supply base, and a favourable corporate tax structure" the Tánaiste said.

The Tánaiste congratulated the organisers Reed Electronics Events and wished all participants success ing the future.