Austin Deasy
Question:52 Mr. Deasy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the new initiatives, if any, she has in place to support the promotion of indigenous industry. [15803/99]
Written Answers. - Indigenous Industry.
The Government is committed to supporting the development of the indigenous sector and that commitment was given new impetus by the establishment, in July 1998, of Enterprise Ireland which combines together, in a one stop-shop, the resources of the former Irish Trade Board, Forbairt and the in-company training division of FÁS.
In line with its mandate, Enterprise Ireland concentrates on helping and supporting client companies to achieve sustainable competitive advantage leading to growth in profitable sales, exports and employment. The policy I set it is to deliver structured and co-ordinated responses to the business needs of clients as identified by them.
In its recently launched business strategy, Enterprise Ireland has set ambitious performance targets which will lead to a bigger, more productive, internationally competitive and world class indigenous sector. The long-term target is to double sales within ten years with attendant increases in exports and employment.
As regards the development of small businesses, the Government decided last September that with effect from 1 January 2000, the local enterprise function will be centralised in the county enterprise boards. This will provide a single local point of contact and support for the establishment and development of small businesses. Through these initiatives the Government will play its part in supporting the indigenous sector. Furthermore, investments under the next national plan will be heavily focused on areas such as improving our infrastructure and our human resources which are so essential to the successful development of industry.