Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
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Question 203: To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the number of companies that have expressed an interest in investing here or further developing existing facilities due to the amended research and development credit scheme announced in May. [25988/11]

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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1Investments in Research, Development and Innovation play a significant role in building Ireland's Smart Economy. RD&I investments not only embed existing operations and employment but pave the way for future investment and Job creation. 2010 saw IDA win a number of high-value RD&I projects for Ireland with over €500million in new RD&I investment secured. RD&I plays a strategic roles as part of Ireland's FDI landscape embedding existing employment and setting the groundwork for increased future employment.

I am informed by IDA that the R&D Tax Credit Scheme continues to be of interest to companies considering undertaking R&D activities. However, specific expressions of interest are not tracked in relation to any specific amendment to that Scheme. While IDA RD&I grants works to stimulate research, development and Innovation in the economy, a further significant advantage in this area is the productive collaboration between industry, academia and government agencies. All stakeholders work together, building a national team to consolidate Ireland's position as a knowledge-based economy and as a primary location for RD&I.