You may know about the major job opportunities in multinationals that have set up here, but how about the job situation in Irish-owned companies? The good news, according to Forbairt chief executive Dan Flinter, is that indigenous industries have mushroomed in recent years. Of these, the three sectors that are the fasting growing in Ireland are the electronics, software and the healthcare and biotechnology industries, he says. The need for suitably trained people is high, particularly at technician level, he says. The indigenous electronics industry now employs up to 8,000 people and has almost doubled since 1990. A major benefit of this sector is the fact that it offers diverse opportunities and requires personnel with a range of technical skills.

"We've seen a very significant level of growth in a number of areas," explains Flinter. "While some companies have been established to supply product to the multi-nationals that have set up here, others have built worldwide partnership agreements with multinationals, and yet others are developing products to supply market niches."

In career terms the area is an attractive one, Flinter asserts. "The Irish companies are complete businesses - they are involved in design, manufacturing, testing and customer relations. Employees get experience right across the board."

Meanwhile, the indigenous software industry now employs up to 6,500 people and is likely to double in size over the next five years. "These companies are selling to industry rather than to the consumer and can offer a unique career experience," he says.

Although the indigenous healthcare and biotechnical industry is still in its infancy - it currently employs 350 people - Flinter anticipates a significant growth in the area over the next five years. Disciplines required include biotechnology, biochemistry, sciences and materials, he says.