BT Northern Ireland increased its turnover by 5.8 per cent last year, to £293.4 million, according to the latest figures released by the group. The company, which employs 2,700 people, as well as 500 agency staff, has invested around £36 million in its Northern Ireland operation in recent years, and a further £35 million in its new Belfast headquarters at Riverside Tower, and in the refurbishment of other properties.

BTNI's financial director, Mr Hanif Lalani, said that in spite of having to face strong competition from rival operators, the company had recorded a significant growth in call volume.

"We have also improved efficiency through cost reduction and increased output," Mr Lalani said.

Total turnover in BT grew by 13.6 per cent to over £18 billion, with pre-tax profits of £4.3 billion. More than one-third of the growth in turnover was due to expansion in Europe and the Asia Pacific region.