US software company Concentrix has confirmed it is to create around 1,000 jobs in Belfast. This more than doubles the company's workforce in Northern Ireland since it established in Belfast three years ago when it acquired a call centre known as Gem.

The investment was hailed by First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness as evidence that Northern Ireland was a prime location for inward investment.

The investment by the company which specialising in company out-sourcing services is valued at some £36 million (€43.5 million) and is the largest single investment supported by the North’s inward investment agency InvestNI.

Mr Robinson said the decision was “excellent news for Northern Ireland”.

“This major investment is a tremendous boost for our local economy and is further evidence that Northern Ireland remains one of the most competitive countries in Europe for inward investors seeking talented people in a cost competitive location,” he said.

Speaking alongside Mr McGuinness at the Concentrix headquarters in central Belfast, he added: “The decision by Concentrix to reinvest in Northern Ireland sends a clear and strong signal to other potential investors that Northern Ireland remains a great place to work, live and invest.”

Mr McGuinness said: “This is an unprecedented jobs announcement by Concentrix creating over 1,000 jobs and contributing over £18 million a year in wages and salaries to the local economy.”