HALIFAX has opened a new £45 million sterling (#74 million) call centre in Northern Ireland, which is expected to create 1,500 jobs over the next three years.

The centre, based in south Belfast, will service the group's customers throughout the UK. It was officially declared open yesterday by the North's First Minister, Mr David Trimble and Deputy First Minister Mr Seamus Mallon.

Speaking at the opening Mr Trimble said: "This is a very significant investment in Belfast by the Halifax group and a very visible vote of confidence in Belfast as a good location for doing business."