Digital, the US computer giant, said yesterday its Irish operations had grown by

11 per cent and created more than 100 extra jobs in the year to the end of June.

The company as a whole reported annual net profits of $141 million (£95

million), compared with a loss the previous year of $112 million.

"Sales of Digital products and services in Ireland, both North and South, increased by 11 per cent from £62.1 million to £68.9 million,"

the company said in a statement. "This came on top of a 10 per cent increase in the previous year."

The company said it had increased employment in its European software centre in Galway, as well as its sales unit and the Year 2000 expertise centre, both in

Dublin. Overall employment in Ireland has now surpassed 1,100, Digital added.

"The last year has seen Digital experience continued strong growth with all indications that greater success lies ahead," said Mr Peter Donnelly, chief executive of the Irish sales unit. "That success can be attributed to the vibrant and close-knit relationship with our partner community."

Digital said its overall fourth quarter net income had climbed to $124

million, against a loss of $433 million from March to June of 1996. Total revenue for the quarter was $3.5 billion, down slightly from the comparable quarter's $3.7 billion.