Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:207 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the extent to which she has identified further foreign investors; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4761/03]
Vol. 561 No. 4
207 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the extent to which she has identified further foreign investors; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4761/03]
The identification of foreign investors is an operational matter for IDA Ireland, the agency charged with responsibility for the attraction of foreign direct investment. IDA seeks to find new investment opportunities on a continuous basis both from new and existing clients. Part of this effort is spearheaded by its overseas offices, which are located in the countries that are the major sources for foreign direct investment.
The IDA feels there is a brighter future ahead in 2003 for inward investment than there has been for the past two years. Despite the turbulent global conditions in 2002 the results for the year exceeded expectations, with a last quarter boost in new projects secured by IDA and a strengthening pipeline of investments in negotiation for the first quarter 2003.