Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 188: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the action he has taken or proposes to take to comply with the joint objections of EU Commissioners Barnier and Geoghegan-Quinn to enhance competitiveness and energise the manufacturing and service sectors in the European economy through innovation, technology and competition; the way this is most likely to manifest itself in this economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2894/11]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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Europe 2020, the European Union's new strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth, was finalised by the European Council in June 2010. A total of seven "Flagship" Initiatives which will underpin the strategy are at various stages of development by the European Commission. Commissioner Geoghegan-Quinn and Commissioner Tajani launched two Flagships Initiatives in the second half of 2010 - the "Innovation Union" and the "Industrial Policy for a Globalisation Era" respectively. Both of these initiatives are aimed at increasing productivity, boosting competitiveness and, ultimately, creating employment through innovation and by developing opportunities in emerging sectors.

The objectives of the two Flagship Initiatives are broadly consistent with the Government's strategy, Building Ireland's Smart Economy, and with the development of the Green Economy in Ireland. In that regard, I support the adoption in these Initiatives of a horizontal approach to industrial policy and innovation, coupled with the identification of key sectors for additional supports. My Department and the enterprise agencies will continue to develop the existing strengths of Irish-based companies and assist them in identifying and capturing opportunities which emerge from the European 2020 strategy in existing and emerging high-potential sectors.

In addition to the Flagship Initiatives launched by Commissioners Geoghegan-Quinn and Tajani, in October 2010 Commissioner Barnier published the Single Market Act which sets out proposals to strengthen the Single Market with measures to boost growth and enhance citizens' rights. The Act has been issued for public consultation, after which the Council and the European Parliament will be asked to formally endorse it during the course of 2011. A list of proposals for priority action in the short term is likely to emerge from this process.

My Department is coordinating the Government's response on the Single Market Act. The views of relevant Government Departments have been sought on the Act and a composite submission will be made to the European Commission at the end of February.