Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees
Thursday, 19 September 2013
Public Accounts Committee
Annual Report and Accounts 2012: Discussion with IDA Ireland
11:00 am
Mr. Barry O'Leary:
With regard to technical capability it is important to recognise we have a balanced portfolio of businesses. We have Internet, technology and medical devices businesses and different skill sets are required for different sectors. There is no doubt with regard to engineering skills in particular. There is a global shortage of engineering skills and those countries which produce more engineering talent or create the environment where they can bring in talent will win a disproportionately strong part of foreign direct investment. It is a key area.