IT spending in Northern Ireland is growing, according to analyst IDC.

Researchers say the total spending on IT in 2005 reached £658m. Government spending accounted for 70 per cent, with the rest coming from the private sector.

Looking ahead, IDC expects IT spending to experience "good growth", reaching £877m in 2010.

IDC spokesman Chris Ingle said: "Northern Ireland is an attractive region to invest in because of the skills and age of the workforce, good quality infrastructure - from transport through broadband to public services - and its physical location.

"IT has a critical role to play in expanding the private sector and renewing infrastructure in the public sector," he said. ®

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