Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not think that is true. There are many other cross-Border initiatives which are not being developed by InterTradeIreland. In the context of INTERREG, there are infrastructural projects under way. There are a number of areas in which collaboration continues to take place. Obviously, both sides have experienced difficulties in the context of funding. In the light of budgetary considerations, InterTradeIreland has encountered such difficulties. However, there is goodwill and also very practical support in encouraging companies in the South to trade in the North and vice versa. There is healthy growth in cross-Border trade, which is the ultimate test in what we are trying to achieve. There has been progress, but both economies must continue to grow. The growth figure for the North stands at 1.8%, which is a sign that there is increasing confidence. The cross-Border surveys we conduct indicate growing confidence and expectations among businesses that they are going to be able to take on additional employees and also increase their levels of spending.

We are doing all we can to provide support. Enterprise Ireland already provides placements - for example, under its leadership for growth programme - for Northern companies that want to develop the capabilities of some of their leaders. There is a great deal of practical collaboration. We are also taking a joint approach to many of the projects relating to Horizon 2020. Eight North-South collaborative projects have won funding in the first phase of Horizon 2020. It is our ambition to win €145 million for such projects overall. In the context of support for Horizon 2020, Enterprise Ireland has very close connections with its counterpart organisation in the North to ensure the joint approach to which I refer will be successful. The projects we have put forward jointly have enjoyed better success rates. There is a great deal of practical work being done and it is having an impact. It may be low key in nature, but it is extremely practical and delivering results.