Ireland has the potential to become the e-commerce hub for Europe with the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) leading the drive, the Taoiseach said today.
Mr Ahern was speaking at the publication of the report "e-Business in International Financial Services - Developing Ireland's Potential" which was prepared by the IFSC's Clearing House Group. The Group is chaired by the Department of the Taoiseach.
The report recommends that Ireland and the IFSC in particular must exploit opportunities for the provision of services using new technology.
Mr Ahern said: "While we have accomplished much in the last few years with regard to our readiness for the impact of e-business it is important that we don't take our foot off the pedal. Much work still needs to be done".
Mr Ahern paid particular attention to the fact that 1,500 new jobs were created in the IFSC last year and the value of funds under management at the Centre grew to $270 million (euro 283 million) in the same period.