The last two to three years have been challenging for those operating in the information, communication and technology (ICT) sector. An increased focus has been placed on total cost of ownership, efficiencies and value for money. This is a good thing and is something that will help deliver sustainable growth for the sector over the next decade.

As we kick off 2004, I believe that there is definitely an increased sense of optimism in the sector. Many of our enterprise customers are planning to invest in ICT in the year ahead and there is increased appreciation at senior executive level of the role that technology and its applications can play at all levels of an organisation's business - regardless of sector.

In terms of employment, I don't expect a dramatic increase in the short term but in the medium to long term I expect the sector to grow again and I believe that roles in the ICT sector will offer very challenging and rewarding career opportunities. It remains critical that we continue to encourage bright young people to choose courses at third level that will equip them for rewarding roles in the sector.

There is a general acceptance, as an industry, that we need to tackle the issue of security and we are all working together to achieve successes in terms of reducing the level of criminal activity in this area. The focus on this area I believe will be increased in the year ahead.