asked the Minister for Industry, Trade, Commerce and Tourism if he will give details of the progress of proposals in relation to the introduction of technology acquisition grants, as laid down in the 1984 White Paper on industrial policy; and the number of such joint ventures and licensing agreements which have been concluded.
Written Answers. - Technology Acquisition Grants.
29.
In line with the commitment in the White Paper on industrial policy, I will shortly introduce in the Dáil the Industrial Development Bill, 1985, which will, inter alia, provide for the payment of technology acquisition grants of up to 50 per cent of eligible costs by the Industrial Development Authority. I am informed by the Industrial Development Authority that in 1984. 29 domestic companies entered into technology transfer agreements with overseas companies, 11 of which were joint ventures. To date in 1985, 25 technology transfer agreements have been completed and a further 28 are being negotiated. The provision of the new technology acquisition grants will be of major assistance in improving the technological status of Irish industry and in accelerating the rate and quality of technology transfer to Ireland.