As Members will be aware, following an invitation from the Tánaiste, I had the honour of leading a delegation from the committee, which accompanied her on a trade mission to North America between 6 October and 9 October. It was an historic and successful trip during which we visited a number of facilities including universities, which are in the frontline of research programmes. We made a number of contacts among the business communities of Canada and the US.
While the delegation report is still being prepared, I take this opportunity to acknowledge Enterprise Ireland and, in particular, its chief executive officer, Mr. Dan Flinter and MsJennifer Condon for the programme they prepared for us. I also acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our Clerk, Mr. Richard Manley, on that visit. Mr. Flinter has made a huge contribution in his work for Enterprise Ireland and I wish him well. If we have the opportunity at some future date, I hope we will be able to avail of his expertise at this committee.
