Two Irish high technology companies will create 80 jobs in Tralee. The Tanaiste, Ms Harney, announced yesterday that Aspen Workflow would create 30 jobs developing and providing Web-based workflow and process management solutions. In addition, Pulse Learning would create 50 jobs at its new e-learning operation in the Kerry town. Pulse Learning produces and maintains e-learning products and value-added services for business.

Both companies have been backed by Shannon Development and will be among the first tenants to move into its Kerry Technology Park.

Ms Harney praised the example set by Shannon Development in building the technology park.

"The fact that these two companies, founded by young Irish graduates, have been attracted back to Tralee by the quality of the infrastructure speaks volumes in itself," said the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

"It supports the argument that industry can be attracted to, and sustained in, a regional environment once the strategy for doing so has been carefully defined."

Mr Sean Ryan, general manager of Aspen Workflow, said Tralee was an ideal location for his company because of its proximity to Shannon, Cork and Kerry airports, the high calibre of computer science graduates coming from Tralee's Institute of Technology, the support of Shannon Development and the higher quality of life in Tralee.

Mr Jim Breen, managing director of Pulse Learning, said: "The decision to base Pulse Learning in Tralee was taken after consideration of the plentiful supply of both experienced and highly qualified IT professionals in Kerry." He praised the support of Shannon Development and the Institute of Technology in Tralee.