asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the extent to which new markets for Irish products have been identified on a worldwide basis by Irish State agencies in the past six months; if he has any plans to expand the role and number of such agencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Identification of New Markets.
119.
Córas Tráchtála, which is the agency charged by the Government with the promotion of Irish exports, maintains a network of 20 offices in Ireland's major markets throughout the world. In addition, this network is expanded by the employment of over 30 trade consultants in secondary and tertiary markets. CTT also maintains specialist technical and information units at its head office in order to identify opportunities relevant to the capabilities of Irish exporters of goods and services.
The establishment of new export markets for Ireland is of great importance. Nevertheless, the defence and further enhancement of existing export markets aimed at strengthening and increasing market share is critical to the maintenance of long-term, broad-based and profitable export operations.
During the past six months, Córas Tráchtála has developed specific programmes under their regional development programme in order to improve the access and success rate of Irish exporters into selected areas in continental European markets. This followed a similar export offensive into Britain during the preceding two years.
Under this programme, CTT had targeted growth regions in Europe for the establishment of linkages between Irish and continental SMEs. Projects are now running in the Lombardy region of Italy and in the Catalonia region of Spain. These areas are the strongest and most rapidly growing regions in their respective countries. The objective is to avoid diluting scarce national and company promotional resources and support services over a wide geographical area. These are then concentrated in those areas which show the greatest potential. Though too early to produce firm results, the response from Irish manufacturers and their potential European partners has been excellent. For 1990, it is proposed to expand the programme to Germany and into France.
Marketing alliances are also being developed with Danish and North American SMEs.
In order to improve the rate of contact between European industrial buyers and relevant Irish suppliers, a source Ireland programme commenced in 1989 in Britain and Germany. The programme highlights specific product sectors of Irish industry — electronics, engineering and pharmaceuticals — through the medium of advertising campaigns, trade fair participation and direct mail.
Increased export potential has also been identified in the US and Eastern European markets and further details of plans in these areas are being given by me today in response to questions specifically dealing with these regions.
On a general level, Córas Tráchtála provides market information, market development, design, group promotion and other support services to Irish exporters anxious to develop overseas markets. In addition, limited financial assistance is available to indigenous exporters in support of agreed marketing plans.
There are no plans to expand the role of Córas Tráchtála. Neither is there any question of establishing further export promotion bodies.