Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 November 2015
110. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the extent to which he expects innovation to play a significant role in job creation over the next five years, with particular reference to the manufacturing and the service sectors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42243/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe importance of innovation to Ireland is recognised by the Government as being crucial to economic growth and plays a key role in job creation. Investment in science, technology and innovation is an essential component of supporting an innovative and enterprising economy. It assists in creating and maintaining high-value jobs and attracts, develops and nurtures business, scientists and talented people, ensuring Ireland is connected and respected internationally. Statistics show that Research, Development and Innovation performing firms are gaining an increasing share of sales, export sales and are accounting for increasing shares of employment. My Department and its agencies are focused on the development and support of internationally trading manufacturing and services firms in Ireland, and have a clear and steady focus on the potential and opportunities that exist and can be created by prioritising innovation and technology as a key driver of success. Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland and Science Foundation Ireland provide a spectrum of innovation and science/ technology development programmes that deliver financial, technical and experiential support to help companies become more innovative, encourage and support competitiveness, and help them grow their sales and exports in order to create a climate in which sustainable employment will grow and expand.
Supporting effective research that produces outputs of maximum impact for Ireland’s economy and society is crucial. In this context, a successor to the national Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation 2006-2013, which will outline our plan to ensure that we build on our significant achievements, will be launched in the coming weeks.
