Jobs boost for Belfast and Derry

An American owned software company has today announced that it is to create around 400 jobs as part of its £23 million expansion

Northbrook Technology, a leading software development and business process outsourcing company, was set up in Northern Ireland in 1998, and employs 1,400 people at centres in Belfast, Londonderry and Strabane.

The new positions are expected to be divided between the Belfast and Londonderry bases.

Northbrook Technology, is a subsidiary of one of the biggest personal insurance companies in the United States.

Invest NI, Northern Ireland's economic development agency, has provided £5.6 million towards the total investment.

Chairman for Invest NI, Stephen Kingon said: "Today's announcement underpins Northbrook's long-term commitment to Northern Ireland and sends a clear message that Northern Ireland can be a serious contender in the global software market."

He added: "This investment is a further step in our determination to drive the local economy up the value chain.”

Northbrook's managing director, Bro McFerran, said: "This investment and the continued support from Invest NI will enable Northbrook to carry out higher value software development and will expand our range of products and services.

"Our increased capability will give Northbrook a stronger, more competitive position in the international financial services market.

"Only by a continued investment in people and skills can we sustain our position as a leading player in an increasingly competitive global market."

The new jobs are expected to generate almost £10 million a year in salaries into the local economy.

(EF/KMcA)