Deirdre Clune (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 120: To ask the Taoiseach the steps he has taken and will take to implement the innovation taskforce's key recommendation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14750/10]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is aware, I launched the Report of the Innovation Taskforce in the Science Gallery, Trinity College on 11 March. As I stated at the launch, I very much welcome the Report which provides a roadmap for one of the five Action Areas in the Smart Economy Framework and complements the progress which has already been made on other aspects of the strategy. Specifically, it endorses the Government's vision for Ireland as a Global Innovation Hub and suggests that we have the potential to achieve this goal. The Report has made a wide range of recommendations, some involving new initiatives while others call for a reinforcement and better alignment of existing efforts and programmes.

The Government will shortly announce the establishment of a High Level Implementation Committee to consider and oversee the implementation of the Taskforce's Report. This Committee will reflect the recent changes in Departmental structures and responsibilities including the increased emphasis on innovation as part of the refocussed Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, as well as some specific re-allocations of Departmental responsibilities which will be supportive in progressing the Taskforce's recommendations. In the meantime, progress is already underway in a number of Government Departments in prioritising implementation of Taskforce recommendations which can be progressed in the short term.