Enterprise Ireland ensures Irish businesses secure €1 billion in new exports

Statement by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Micheál Martin, TD

December 18th 2007

The end of year statement by Enterprise Ireland shows Irish firms continue to secure major deals in international markets with new exports of over €1 billion expected for 2007, according to the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Micheál Martin, TD.

“This third successive year of impressive growth by Irish business, with the support of Enterprise Ireland, puts us in a strong position to meet the challenges of the global business environment.”

“The fact that key targets for Research and Development were exceeded during the period also shows that Irish business is determined to remain at the cutting edge into the future.”

“Enterprise Ireland has been at the forefront of the growth in R&D by actively encouraging increased links between colleges and businesses, while its Innovation Voucher Scheme has made research accessible to firms of all sizes.”

“The year was also marked by a number of successful trade missions, including a mission led by the Taoiseach to Saudi Arabia and Dubai, missions to the US and to London, where Irish firms are involved in the preparations for the 2012 Olympics.”

“There are challenges to be met as we head into 2008. Enterprise Ireland through its new Strategy is ready to support Irish businesses as they expand in existing markets and move into new markets across Asia, The Middle East as well as Central and South America,” concluded Minister Martin.

ENDS/ETE1830