The number of people employed in the Irish digital media industry is likely to treble over the next six years, according to Tánaiste Ms Harney.
Speaking at a conference organised by an Enterprise Ireland and IBEC, Ms Harney said she also expected the value of exports generated by the digital media sector to increase from £300 million (€380 million) to £700 million by 2007.
"The Digital Media industry, of absolute necessity, is driven by clear market demands – the focus must continue to be on the origination of high quality products that audiences want to see. Ireland has some strong advantages on which to build in this sector given our history of creativity and innovation," said the Tánaiste.
She said strategic alliances between Irish and overseas companies may be necessary for indigenous firms to remain competitive.
Executive director of Enterprise Ireland Mr Peter Coyle said the agency was already forging links in the US. He said a group of Irish content providers will soon be meeting with US cable and network channels with a view to collaborating on content for the US market.