10th July 2000

Email this Page |

Speaking last week at the University of Ulster's graduation ceremony at Magee College in Derry, the Vice-Chancellor warned of the dangers to the Northern Ireland economy of complacency and a lack of competitiveness.

Professor McKenna said: "It has been well chronicled that Northern Ireland's place in the digital economy, its ability to be globally competitive, could be threatened by complacency. There is evidence of a problem in our state of mind. Earlier this year, a survey in the province showed that 60% of those interviewed resolutely stated that they had no plans to connect to the Internet within the next year. There are dangers on two fronts. The first is by a delay in connecting to world-wide information systems; and the second is by failing to address the skills shortage that could undermine economic regeneration in Northern Ireland."

He welcomed the recent announcement by Chancellor Gordon Brown of a £1 billion investment in scientific research, but warned of the potential dangers to the local economy of under investment:

"We welcome the announcement this week by Chancellor Gordon Brown of a new £1 billion investment in university research infrastructure. It is absolutely essential that the Northern Ireland Government and the two universities here participate fully in this initiative. Only by full and determined participation can we ensure that our research base remains competitive with that of Great Britain and the Irish Republic to underpin the development of the knowledge-based economy which our people deserve."

For further information, please contact:

Press Office Department of Communication and Development
Telephone: 028 9036 6178
Email: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk