Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)

I accept the Deputy's comments. For the reasons he has outlined, I have directed the IDA to give a particular priority to the region. It has suffered badly, and not only during the recession. During the good years, the growth in its industrial base did not match the growth in other parts of the country. I have also directed Enterprise Ireland to contact its portfolio of companies intensively and to make a competitive call for feasibility funding for new start-ups targeted specifically at the south east. Some of Enterprise Ireland's new programmes will be piloted in the south east to give the region the first opportunity. We have sought to build on the research excellences found in Waterford Institute of Technology, WIT, and work with companies to develop them. We are intensively considering what our agencies can do to promote employment growth in the south-east and to support business start-ups.

Many of the issues the Deputy raised fall outside my remit. I am acutely aware that, for a long time, the region has sought to upgrade from an institute of technology. I understand that criteria will shortly be published to clarify the requirements for the development of a technological university. The Minister for Education and Skills is clear on there being an opportunity for educational institutions to develop. I acknowledge the Deputy's remarks and it is a region to which we are giving intensive attention.

See this speech in context