Economy Minister Nigel Dodds recognised the commitment of Indian companies in Northern Ireland before setting off on a trade and investment mission.

Minister Dodds visited the local offices of Indian investors Firstsource and HCL BPO Services (NI) Limited this week. At HCL the Minister congratulated a number of employees who have recently marked ten years of service.

Speaking in advance of his visit to India next week, the Minister said: "Since establishing in Northern Ireland, HCL has been providing round the clock support to customers across the globe from its bases in Belfast and Armagh growing from 450 to over 2,000 staff. "Firstsource is also well on its way to creating over 1,000 jobs at its Belfast and Londonderry centres.

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"Investments made by international companies such as HCL and Firstsource are playing an important role in introducing new business skills to the Northern Ireland economy."

Invest NI has offered over £61m to 26 business service centres over the past five years, leading to total investment of £247m and the planned creation of almost 7,500 jobs. This support is creating employment opportunities in areas of economic disadvantage, giving people the opportunity to develop a business skills base.

The Minister will be visiting New Delhi and Mumbai in India from 2 to 6 February for talks with business and political leaders and tourism operators.

(GK/JM)