Joyce under attack as Labour slams Govt's ICT policy

The government's ICT policy is just window dressing and is a woefully inadequate attempt to support the industry.

That's the view, somewhat unsurprisingly, of Labour's ICT spokesperson Clare Curran, following government plans to invest $28.6m in educating new ICT talent.

"The government's plan to fund 350 students in four years' time is not enough," claims Curran, slamming the National Party for the second time in a week.

"The $28 million in funding is also highly questionable. Just 60 per cent of that money will go to funding students, the rest of it appears to be for flash facilities for Steven Joyce to visit."

According to Curran, the ICT sector is a "vibrant and growing part of the economy."

"Labour knows it needs support," she adds, claiming the party will announce its ICT upgrade in the near future as part of its Economic Upgrade to provide comprehensive solutions for the industry.

"Labour's policy will include a more focused approach to addressing ICT skills shortages, including through more skills training," Curran adds.