Inward investors, such as Nortel Networks, are making an important contribution to the local economy

Sir Reg Empey

Sir Reg said Nortel was one of the province's "most progressive companies in terms of technology" and referred to its links with local universities as proof of its commitment to training at all levels.

The Newtownabbey operation is Nortel's largest optical systems house in Europe.

Paying tribute to the other award winners, Sir Reg said they were making an important contribution to the local economy.

"These and other ambitious companies helped to push exports of manufactured goods to a new record of almost �4 billion in 1999-2000, a 14.2 per cent increase on the previous year.

"Inward investors, such as Nortel Networks and other award winners, are making an important contribution to the local economy particularly in technology transfer, skills development and productivity."

'Truly commendable'

Tributes were also paid to locally owned companies, especially those involved in the technology, healthcare and electronics sectors.

The minister added that the performance of Northern Ireland companies in global markets over the past 10 years was "truly commendable".

Five other companies received category awards, nine were highly commended and 10 were short listed by a team of judges from the business community headed by Sir David Fell, Chairman of Northern Bank.

The awards, now in their ninth year, are organised by Trade International Northern Ireland with sponsorship from the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry and British Airways.

The honours were awarded on the basis of export performance over the three years 1998-2000.

Other winners at the awards were: