asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the plans he has to achieve international industrial co-operation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Industrial Co-operation.
30.
International industrial co-operation is being achieved through the Joint Venture Division of the Industrial Development Authority and the Business Co-operation Centre of the EEC, usually referred to as the "Marriage Bureau".
The IDA set up its joint venture division in April, 1973 to encourage international co-operative ventures. I understand that to date 419 inquiries have been received from overseas companies. Contacts have been established in 97 cases, resulting so far in 11 projects approved by the IDA, a further 7 at an advanced stage of negotiation and 11 at a preliminary stage.
I am informed that since the EEC Marriage Bureau was set up in May, 1973, 71 Irish firms have requested assistance from the bureau in identifying potential partners in other member States and that 37 of these have so far been put in touch with prospective partners.
I also have under consideration at present the question of co-operation agreements with other countries to facilitate industrial co-operative arrangements.
I take it the Minister is satisfied that this "marriage bureau" is working? Could he tell me if he is getting full co-operation from the Confederation of Irish Industry?
I think, in answer to the first part of the question, that the volume of use in both directions shows grounds for satisfaction. It seems to be functioning as intended and I know of no lack of co-operation from industry.