New strategy to deepen Ireland’s economic resilience and responsiveness in the face of highly changeable global conditions

Dublin, Ireland, 8th March 2017 – Science Foundation Ireland has today welcomed the publication of the Government’s new International Trade Strategy – Ireland Connected: Trading and Investing in a Dynamic World.

The strategy launched by An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny TD, Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Mary Mitchell O’Connor TD, and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Charlie Flanagan TD, presents a cohesive, whole-of-government strategy that builds on existing successes and sets ambitious targets for Ireland’s exports, foreign direct investment and international education.

Welcoming the new strategy, Prof Mark Ferguson, Director General of Science Foundation Ireland and Chief Scientific Adviser to the Government of Ireland, said: “Ireland Connected provides a solid framework which will ensure that all Government Departments and Agencies continue to operate in a cohesive and coordinated manner, so that Ireland maintains the successes achieved under the preceding Trade, Tourism and Investment strategy. Science Foundation Ireland plays a vital role in the fabric of Ireland’s international trade strategy.” 

“The relationships and actions that emerge out of industrial and academic international collaboration are wide-reaching and impactful. I am committed to the actions associated with Science Foundation Ireland in the strategy – specifically, increasing the number of partnership arrangements involving academic institutes, research centres, funding agencies and companies. Scientific research collaboration provides unique opportunities for Ireland in times of evolving global environments.” 

“I look forward to working with our colleagues across government, at home and abroad, to ensure that the national and international trade agenda leverages the significant gains that are derived from the world class research supported by Science Foundation Ireland.”

The full release and the report can be accessed on the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation website.