Jim Higgins
Ceist:37 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if there is a specific policy of industrial development concentrating on the aspect of import substitution; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Import Substitution.
The Government believes, within the context of a free trade environment, that an important aspect of industrial policy is to encourage the development of firms capable of winning market share in a competitive European marketplace. Achieving share on the home market is a vital factor in the developmental phase of small and medium-sized companies.
In addition to Government policy to create a favourable environment for business development, a number of specific initiatives in this respect are outlined in the programme for industrial development.
Of particular significance are the strategies for small and medium-sized Irish owned industry, which include the programmes run by the Irish Goods Council and the national linkage programme, administered by the Industrial Development Authority.