Guests discussed how the pace of growth in the IT sector might have positive effects on the wider economy. It was estimated six jobs could be created in the general economy for every one in technology.

Attendees were not just tech companies, but a cross section of the business and academic community who leverage many aspects of IT to improve their businesses.

Minister Sean Sherlock opened the event and then passed the baton to Denis Collins chairman of the European tech cluster who delivered a speechcalling on Government to engage with Industry leaders to address the skills shortage in the Irish tech sector and elaborated on the incremental growth creation for Ireland by embracing the growth in IT industry.

"If we do this right and become a premier IT global hub, this is good for everyone - we get a re-balanced economy, significant job creation and opportunities in multiple non-IT industries also." said Collins.

Other speakers at the conference included Ben Hammersley, editor-at-large of Wired magazine and advisor to UK prime minister David Cameron; Sean O'Sullivan, Dragons Den; and Kevin O'Leary, CEO, Qumas.

An expanded national forum is being planned later this month.

Fiona Donnellan