I propose to take Questions Nos. 120 and 123 together.
2013 was one of the best years in recent times for the attraction of foreign direct investment (FDI) and the creation of jobs in IDA Ireland client companies. During the year a total of 13,367 new jobs were created in IDA Ireland client companies and 164 investments won thereby exceeding the targets set out in the Action Plan for Jobs 2013. Of the 164 investments won, 78 came from companies investing in Ireland for the first time, with 59 expansions and 27 Research, Development and Innovation projects. R&D capital investment remains very strong and in 2013, IDA Ireland achieved 93% of the target of R&D investments. This is a strong performance given the general market caution for large capital projects which includes significant R&D activities. R,D&I remains significantly important to Ireland’s FDI landscape embedding existing employment and putting in place the framework for future employment creation. There are now over 166,000 people directly employed in IDA Ireland client companies nationwide, the highest number in the history of the agency.
There are 13 IDA Ireland-supported companies in Donegal employing 2,381 people in full and part time employment in Software Development, Systems Development and the Medical Technology industry. In 2013, 177 new jobs were created in Donegal. Companies such as Pramerica and UnitedHealth (PacifiCare) which have located in County Donegal are continuously growing and recruiting. IDA Ireland actively engages with its existing base of companies in Donegal, highlighting the ongoing importance of upskilling/reskilling and the need to add high value activities in order to ensure sustainability and ongoing development.
I am informed by IDA Ireland that during 2013 there were seven IDA Ireland sponsored site visits by potential investors to Co. Donegal and two such visits in the first three months of 2014. Donegal’s industry base is transforming from the clothing and textile industry into high tech, high skill activity and IDA Ireland actively promotes Donegal as a successful location for high-end manufacturing mainly to companies in the medical technologies sector. In addition to boost regional development in the area and win new business IDA Ireland has announced its intention to erect a new office facility in Letterkenny.
Another focus for IDA Ireland in Donegal is the designated linked Gateway of Letterkenny/Derry. This focus involves developing stronger economic links with Invest Northern Ireland, which includes initiatives like the North West Business & Technology Zone (NWBTZ). The NWBTZ is aimed at promoting the linked Gateway of Letterkenny/Derry in line with the NI Regional Development Strategy 2025.
In regard to the level of grant aid payable by the enterprise development agencies under the Regional Aid Guidelines, my Department has issued the proposed Regional Aid Map for Ireland to the Commission for consideration and approval. It would be inappropriate to disclose the contents of this submission until such time as the Commission has finalised its consideration of the matter.
