asked the Minister for Industry, Trade, Commerce and Tourism in view of the renewed business confidence in Northern Ireland and the seeming upturn in business activity, evident for example from the orders won by Harland and Wolff and the firm of Shortt Brothers, if he considers it appropriate to encourage linkages with firms in the Republic to ensure that spin off from such orders would benefit firms here; and the action, if any, being taken to encourage such economic linkages.
Written Answers. - Cross-Border Co-operation.
561.
Because of its proximity, ease of access and other factors, Northern Ireland represents a convenient and unique export market for Irish firms, particularly for small indigenous firms. This position is recognised by Córas Tráchtála which seeks to identify on an on-going basis all entities with which potential export opportunities may arise. Appropriate firms here are then appraised of the likely beneficial spin off for them.
It is well known that I am in favour of cross-Border exchanges and co-operation on as many fronts as possible.