ITANZ says ICT Task Force goals achievable

NEWS RELEASE – 20 NOVEMBER 2002

ITANZ says ICT Task Force goals achievable

Initiatives to give teeth to the recommendations of the Government Task Force on Information Communications Technology were promised today by the country's leading ICT industry group - the Information Technology Association of New Zealand (ITANZ).

"We believe the target of ICT contributing to 10 percent of GDP by 2012 is achievable, provided that tertiary institutions, research institutes and the Government commit with us to achieving this goal," said the Executive Director of ITANZ, Mr Jim O’Neill.

“We are working now on initiatives to provide fresh impetus for growth in the sector. The Task Force report sets a platform for these.

"The most critical point is that we must start now with a clear sense of direction and a determination to eliminate barriers to growth that the task force has identified.

"The industry is an exciting one and the task of encouraging new ICT talent among our young people in schools, families and communities is one we can tackle with enthusiasm.
There is a rewarding career path in ICT in New Zealand.

"But if we are to avoid a need for much higher immigration levels to meet demand for skilled recruits, it is essential our education systems, research infrastructure and public service administration are committed to the targets proposed by the Task Force. ITANZ looks forward to being involved in the process for progress in this area.

"We agree there is a need to further develop the business skills required for the New Zealand industry to become a larger player on the global scene.

"We cannot ignore, however, the significant presence of international companies here and the valuable contribution they can make in this area. Working in alliance with New Zealand companies, government and the research community they offer a real opportunity to develop intellectual property for taking to the world.

"They are keen to help," he said.

"The report represents a call to action. Let's get on with it." - Ends

ITANZ represents the Information and Communications Technology industry of New Zealand; a business sector that generates combined annual revenues in excess of $11 billion. ITANZ members account for approximately 85% of this revenue and directly employ more than 30,000 people. Our aim is to maximize the economic and social potential inherent in these technologies to create advantages for all New Zealanders.

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