Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)

The programme for Government sets out clearly that Ireland's economic recovery must be export-led and commits us to achieving the maximum growth in exports. Enterprise Ireland will spearhead this work.

A potential exporters' unit is currently being operationalised in Enterprise Ireland. It will offer a new service delivery and model of engagement for new and existing client companies. Along with the provision of business-related toolkits, including export toolkits which will be delivered in part on-line, the division will provide tailored export capability building workshops, modules and programmes for companies entering new markets as well as access to mentors. A new series of guides to markets is also being introduced with a focus on practical information aimed at new exporters. This will be available even to companies who do not meet Enterprise Ireland's normal employment test of having at least ten employees. The intention is to widen the range of companies which can graduate to other established programmes focussed on exporting opportunities.

Such programmes are tailored to a company's stage of export development. They include the international selling programme and the excel at export selling workshop series as well as first flight workshops and mentor services. As well as training programmes, Enterprise Ireland helps companies retain the services of industry experts to support market expansion and development. The going global fund also supports established but domestically-focussed companies to explore opportunities on the international market. Through its client knowledge services offer, Enterprise Ireland allows client companies and potential exporters access to a comprehensive library of sector and market intelligence and information on doing business overseas. Enterprise Ireland has also developed detailed third-party legal and tax contacts in priority markets which can be accessed by new exporters, as well as organising and engaging business networks in all markets wherever possible. It recently launched the second call of its very successful graduates 4 international growth programme.

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