I propose to take Questions Nos. 274 and 275 together. Regarding the Deputy's question relating to the level of activity to date under the NAPP/IFI Programme, as indicated in my separate reply, operational matters relating to the IFI do not fall within the remit of my Department. The Department of Foreign Affairs have, however, issued a number of press releases on the matter, copies of which I have arranged to be sent to the Deputy directly. In so far as duplication and streamling of the roles of agencies is concerned, Forbairt's activities under its Technology Transfer/Partnership Programme—which helps companies to develop new products and processes—are complementary to, rather than overlapping with, those of ABT, which focus on helping companies find/develop overseas markets for new or existing products. Typically companies will avail themselves of assistance from both agencies as part of their strategic development.
Forbairt's small number of executives in North America, who are based in IDA offices to maximise information flows and minimise costs, are responsible for the identification of potential US based partners to meet the identified needs of Irish companies for technology transfers partnerships and also represent Forbairt's interests in the attraction of overseas investment in the natural resources sectors. I am satisfied that there is no overlap between Forbairt's activities in relation to the IFI/NAPP and ABT's marketing role in North America.
