An executive from one of the world's top gaming companies says it is now impossible to be a global player in the tech industry without an Irish base.

The former Head of Zynga Games Business Operations, Marcus Segal, says Ireland can 'dominate' the world's software and hardware production but must reform education and expand its talent pool.

He says Irish schools must develop coding skills and tech companies should target top developers from around the world to boost the quality of our workforce.

Speaking at the 'Smart Economy' event hosted by the US Embassy in Dublin, Marcus Segal says Ireland is already the "go-to country" for tech companies.

The conference brought together tech leaders, policy makers, educators, entrepreneurs and business leaders from the US, Ireland and Northern Ireland.

The opening keynote address was given by Taoiseach Enda Kenny. While other speakers from the United States and Ireland included Steven Duggan, Head of Worldwide Education Strategy at Microsoft, Paddy Cosgrave of the Web Summit, Lousie Phelan of Paypal and current President of the American Chamber of Commerce, Sean O'Sullivan.

The Chargé d'Affaires of the US Embassy, Stuart Dwyer, said "It is true that we may have smart phones, and plans for smart cities, smart grids and smart oceans - but without “smart” people momentum these areas will stall".

"Today, in our globalised world, education plays on an international field. We believe the United States and Ireland are uniquely partnered to lead in the next wave of innovation that technology will bring to education. That is good for us all" he added.

The American Chamber of Commerce also unveiled a new report - 'Social Impact of US Companies in Ireland' - looking at corporate social responsibility programs in the field of education.