I would expect a job boost for the economy next year, in general. Based on the European and global recovery, I think we will see jobs being created by both multinationals and indigenous exporters.

Many analysts are predicting a "tech resurrection" in 2004 as worldwide IT spending bounces back to solid positive growth.

I think this year's Budget was neutral and will do little to help indigenous firms.

The one positive note on the Budget is that it did not introduce any anti-business policies like the acceleration of corporation tax payments or the increase in PRSI tax bands that we experienced in the recent past.

I think Ireland will stay competitive for ICT investment in 2004. While some companies are moving their software production to lower-cost countries, the emerging value-added opportunity in ICT is in product creation, design and innovation.

Ireland has the talent and resources to deliver at the high end of the value chain.

ThirdForce aims to profitably expand in 2004 through organic growth and the acquisition of complementary businesses. Building on strategic relationships in the UK, US, Middle East, China and Latin America will be a key driver.