Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for asking about this because it is an area in which I am really interested.

In July 2011, the Government approved an approach whereby Enterprise Ireland supports the defence organisation by raising awareness of and engaging with Irish-based enterprise and research institutes that are engaged in activities related to the Defence Forces’ capacity potential. The primary objective of this initiative is to support Defence Forces' capability development for crisis management through the application of new and innovative technology and research. The application of such technology and research in the defence domain also supports innovation, growth and jobs in Irish industry, particularly for companies and institutions operating in the security and defence — dual-use — sector. In addition, the Defence Forces' knowledge of the defence market and defence capability and technology development means they can bring valuable experience and knowledge to the attention of these companies and institutes.

Subject to the provisions of the Defence (Miscellaneous Provisions Act) 2010, the Defence Forces also participate in relevant capability development projects at European level under the umbrella of the European Defence Agency. Enterprise Ireland also supports Irish-based enterprise and research institutes in accessing research opportunities in the European Defence Agency.

Through the Irish Maritime Energy and Resource Cluster, which is a partnership of the Naval Service, University College Cork and Cork Institute of Technology, the Naval Service has been involved in various initiatives with Enterprise Ireland within its capability requirements sphere. In supporting the Defence Forces' capability and making a contribution to economic recovery, my Department will continue to provide assistance to Enterprise Ireland and companies supported by Enterprise Ireland in 2015. In addition, my Department will ensure all interested parties are kept abreast of European Defence Agency developments.

Multiple companies are working in partnership with the Defence Forces to test products. Let me give the Deputy some examples.

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