asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he has any proposals to establish a State-sponsored advisory service aimed first at small and medium sized industry, sponsored by such organisations as the Irish Institute of Research and Standards, IDA, FII, IMI, AnCo, Córas Tráchtála and other research institutes; and, if not, why.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Industrial Advisory Service.
40.
The Industrial Development Authority, and the county development teams already provide an advisory service for industries coming within the scope of the small industries programme. The small industries committee of the IDA, which include representatives of Córas Tráchtála and the Industrial Credit Company, examine applications for grant assistance and help firms to get the best advice possible. Where appropriate, the IDA call on the other agencies mentioned by the Deputy to assist smaller firms. Advisory services are also provided by the Irish Productivity Centre and the Irish Management Institute.
The co-ordinating committee for industrial services under the aegis of my Department co-ordinate all the services provided for industry in general by the agencies for which I am responsible.
In these circumstances I do not consider that there is any need for an additional State-sponsored advisory service.