FG to focus on high-tech jobs

Fine Gael plans to extend tax reliefs and create a "digital docklands" as part of its bid to turn Ireland into a hub for computer game firms.

The party said the proposals in its jobs plan make specific provisions for developing this part of the high-tech sector in Ireland and said it could help bring the economy out of recession.

Under the plan, the research and development tax credits system will be changed to ensure that innovation in the form of digital game design is given tax credit status. This includes spending on intellectual property development, software development and creative design.

The party also pledged to allow companies to offset R&D credits against employers' PRSI as an alternative to corporation tax.

Party leader Enda Kenny said the high-tech sector could provide jobs and growth in the future. "I'm hugely ambitious for Ireland in gaming and across the entire high-tech area," he said. said.

"Fine Gael's five-point plan to get Ireland working has identified the high-tech area as one key area that can give us real high-value jobs, high-value growth, so we can keep our bright young people at home in their own country."

Mr Kenny said up to €10 million from the innovation fund would be invested in the sector under a seed capital scheme, supporting start-up digital gaming companies.

Up to €2 billion will be spent over the next four years on delivering next generation broadband to help bring high-speed access to homes and businesses through mobile, wireless and fibre connections.

The funding will come from Fine Gael's "New Era" investment plan, which will be financed by the funds from the National Pension Reserve Fund and proceeds from the sale of State assets. The investments are expected to be profitable, repaid by charges on users, businesses and consumers.

"If we want to play and compete at the top level across the globe tomorrow, we've got to invest today," Mr Kenny said.

The plan also provides for attracting game designing talent to Ireland, with companies offered incentives to relocate here.

The digital docklands scheme, meanwhile, would provide facilities for established companies. Google and Facebook are already located in the Docklands area.

The global games industry is expected to be worth about $49 billion this year. The Irish industry has grown employment by about 400 per cent over the past seven years, and a number of successful companies - Demonware, Havok and Jolt Online Gaming - have been established here.

Ireland has attracted a number of high-tech international firms too, with companies such as Google, Microsoft and Facebook all operating from the country.