Minister Devins opens conference on Intellectual Property

‘‘This Government is fully committed to creating the conditions in this country in which innovation can flourish. We will ensure that the mix of incentives, direct supports, advice and regulations are equal to the need for the development of a thriving research, innovation and commercialisation culture…. Protecting our intellectual property is a fundamental part of this endeavour.’’Devins

The Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Jimmy Devins, T.D., today (Wednesday 18 February 2009) opened a conference on “Intellectual Property: Protection and Commercialisation”. The aim of the conference was to encourage debate and the sharing of experience between a broad spectrum of experts in the field of intellectual property, on the benefits of protecting intellectual property and commercialisation strategies.

In his opening address, Minister Devins spoke of the need to be aware of the importance of protecting intellectual property rights. The Minister said, “Those who do not act on good advice to protect their inventions or creations through patents, trade marks of copyright, are seriously exposed in this era of globalised trade.”

Whilst reflecting on the importance of the protection and commercialisation of intellectual property, the Minister reminded the audience of the Policy Statement on “Innovation in Ireland”, which he launched with the Tanaiste last year, and which highlighted the management and use of intellectual property as being key issues in exploiting innovative opportunities.

In addressing this point the Minister stressed that our “Future competitiveness depends on delivering demand-driven innovative products and services. In that regard, the Government is fully committed to creating the conditions in this country in which innovation can flourish. Government will ensure that the mix of incentives, direct supports, advice and IP regulations are equal to the need for the development of a thriving research, innovation and commercialisation culture.’’

Commenting on the need for industry-academic partnerships, the Minister also stated that “If Ireland is to create and keep comparative advantage, we will need to successfully convert the fruits of research into saleable products, processes and services and protecting our IP is a fundamental part of this endeavour.’’

The Minister also remarked on the various EU initiatives taking place to improve the regulatory environment for intellectual property. He specifically referred to proposals for a reduction in fees being considered at the Office of Harmonisation for the Internal Market, OHIM – the EU trademark agency. He also mentioned the on-going negotiations taking place within Europe on the creation of a Community Patent and Community Patent Jurisdiction.

ENDS/IP87