Study says 38% of Irish computer software counterfeit
Almost 40% of software installed on Irish computers is counterfeit, according to an organisation representing computer companies worldwide.
The Business Software Alliance said a study it commissioned last year found that 38% of computer software in Ireland was pirated, down from 41% in 2003.
Despite the strongest Copyright Law in Europe and extensive education and enforcement campaigns, the high piracy levels continue to impact the Irish economy representing a 25% increase over the 2003 value of pirated software.
Despite this figure, the BSA said Ireland had the 19th lowest rate of software piracy of the countries surveyed.
The highest rate was in Vietnam (92%) and the lowest in the United States (21%), while the global average was found to be 35%, down one percentage point since 2003.
The independent study was conducted by leading global technology research company, IDC.
For its analysis, IDC drew upon its worldwide data for software and hardware shipments, conducted more than 7,000 interviews in 23 countries, and enlisted IDC analysts in over 50 countries to review local market conditions.
Julian McMenamin, chairman of BSA Ireland commented: “Ireland continues to experience an unacceptable high piracy rate and trails behind the average EU country rate of 35% and the UK rate of 27%.
"The encouraging response from Irish companies indicates their increasing respect for intellectual property and a more responsible attitude overall. However, there still remains the significant challenge of combating software piracy at all levels."
Commenting on the results of the study, ICT Ireland's Director, Kathryn Raleigh said: "The ICT sector is of huge importance to Ireland - it employs over 91,000 people and has a turnover of €52bn.
"Of the 10 major software companies in the world, 7 have a substantial base in Ireland. It is therefore vital that Ireland reduces its piracy rates and respects intellectual property if Ireland is to remain attractive to foreign direct investment and maintain competitiveness on a global scale.”
