Minister Lenihan highlights importance of ongoingJapanese-Irish collaboration on scientific research

- Leading Irish researchers showcased at dedicated Dublin-based forum

The importance of continued research collaboration between Ireland and Japan in strategic areas such as Information and Communications Technology, life sciences, energy and the environment was emphasised by Minister for Science, Technology & Innovation, Conor Lenihan T.D. when he addressed the opening of a Japan-Ireland Technology Forum in Dublin.

The forum was organised by Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) in partnership with IDA Ireland and Science Foundation Ireland (SFI).

Minister Lenihan said "Today’s forum is a direct consequence of the Taoiseach Brian Cowen's visit to Tokyo in January of this year. The forum is designed to showcase the R&D potential of Ireland and increase research investment between Ireland and Japan”.

The event which showcases Ireland’s research talent pool, R&D infrastructure and investment potential, was attended by 70 people including senior representatives from large-scale Japanese companies and Japanese governmental organisations, as well as leading Irish researchers.

“To see so many leading Japanese tech companies represented here today strongly indicates that further collaborative partnerships and investment in key areas can be secured between our two nations,” Minister Lenihan concluded

ENDS/IP126

Wednesday 4^th November 2009