asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the extent to which trade and marketing information is made available to industry both in the service and manufacturing areas; the means which are used; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Trade and Marketing Information.
94.
A comprehensive range of information on trade and marketing issues is available to industry in both the services and manufacturing sectors.
In the case of overseas markets, the primary source of such information is Córas Tráchtála whose market information centre contains the largest collection of trade and market information available in Ireland. This centre offers exporters and potential exporters direct on-line access to quality data which is vital for firms planning initiatives in overseas markets. The value of this service to industry is reflected in the fact that almost 18,000 inquiries/searches were conducted at the centre in 1988.
The Irish Goods Council has available a comprehensive data-base of trade and marketing information relating to the domestic market and this information is freely available to service and manufacturing firms. In 1988, the Irish Goods Council processed 6,200 inquiries from manufacturing and service firms.
In addition to the above services, which provide essential basic data ranging from trading conditions in specific markets to identified opportunities in product sectors, both Córas Tráchtála and the Irish Goods Council issue "Guide to Industry" booklets, which focus on specific areas of opportunity for Irish firms. Both agencies also arrange regular seminars and workshops to advise firms of trade and marketing developments.
I regard the availability of these information services as an essential element in the State's support for industry and would encourage Irish industry to make full use of them.