The number of jobs in IDA companies has fallen for the second year in a row, according to its annual report published this afternoon.
Figures first published in January show that 11,743 new jobs were created in IDA companies last year while 14,945 were lost. This meant the number of people employed by just over 1,000 IDA supported companies fell by 3,202 or 2.3% to 133,246.
But chief executive Sean Dorgan said the IDA was 'cautiously optimistic' for 2003 with 20 new projects announced so far this year. Two thirds of these jobs will be for graduates.
He also said it was difficult to secure investment in the regions because of the 'persistent issues of infrastructure'. He warned the economic slowdown had freed up capacity in the major cities and inward investors were expressing preferences for city locations.
Today's IDA report shows that €116m was paid out in grant payments last year with €54m, or 46.5%, going to Intel alone.
The report also shows that €21m was written off the value of the IDA's purchase of the former Global Crossing international broadband connection. It was originally bought by the State for approximately €74m.
