asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether or not he proposes to undertake, or has undertaken, any strategic studies with regard to the employment potential of increased international trading activities by Ireland; which trading opportunities and countries offer the greatest scope in this respect; the steps he is taking to develop trading links with those countries specifically; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - International Trading Activities.
49.
I would like to refer the Deputy to Section V of the Programme for National Recovery which details the Government's employment strategy. This section specifies areas where potential for increased employment has been identified and indicates that further such areas will be identified.
Specifically, a sector by sector development strategy based on market research at home and abroad, our natural resources, the new advanced skills in our work-force, and the achievement of increased market share in selected sectors and markets is being undertaken. Specific and realistic job opportunities will be identified for each sector.
It will be clear to the Deputy that if these sectors of industry are to expand and create employment to their full potential they will, because of the limitations of the home market, have to look to the development of export markets.
As regards trading opportunities offering the greatest scope for increased exports, the countries of the EC and, in particular, the UK continue to offer the best opportunities. The UK remains our most important market. It is particularly so for indigenous industry which having won a share of the home market, can then take its first step in exporting to this adjacent market. Of our other EC partners, Germany is the next largest export market and has been targeted by the Government for special attention because of its potential. Other European markets which offer particular opportunity are France, Italy and Spain. In so far as more distant markets are concerned, potential is seen in such areas as China, South East Asia, and Japan in addition to North America where CTT continue to work for increased exports.
In developing export potential in all markets CTT provide comprehensive assistance to Irish exporters. This includes arrangement of trade missions, attendance at trade fairs, inward buyer missions, provision of market analysis and a full range of support services to individual companies.
Further initiatives, either in place or planned, aimed at developing trading opportunities include the development of a strong commercial focus in our overseas representations, of the National Marketing Plan and of special trading houses which have been the subject of a separate question today.