Computer Associates (CA), the third largest computer software company in the world, is to expand in Ireland by doubling its workforce to 50 over the coming year. The move is seen as a strengthening of Computer Associate's commitment to the Irish market, with most of the new jobs in the software services area. To accommodate the expansion, larger offices have been acquired in Ballsbridge, which will also house a new sales training centre. The announcement coincides with the first visit to Ireland by Mr Charles Wang, president and chief executive officer of CA. After briefing customers at an "Executive Exchange" presentation in Luttrellstown Castle, Mr Wang met with the Tanaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Ms Harney. She was expected to brief Mr Wang on the advantages of further inward investment to Ireland, in particular in the area of software development.

According to Mr Liam Carabini, general manager CA Ireland and Scotland, further investment here is likely, and CA has already been in discussion with IDA Ireland about the prospect. "CA is in the process of looking everywhere for opportunities, and Mr Wang is aware the skills profile in Ireland is very good," Mr Carabini says.

Earlier this month, CA announced record fourth-quarter and annual results. Net profit for the year was $1.2 billion (£848.5 million) on revenues of $4.7 billion, a 17 per cent increase on the previous year. This was after a $34 million charge in connection with a hostile $9.8 billion bid for the computer services group, Computer Sciences (CSC), which was rejected in March. CA's 20-year history has been marked by aggressive takeovers of ailing software rivals. CA is still looking to expand its services business to clients, not just for its own products but for every aspect of installation of a networked system in a business.