Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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51. To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the extent to which she expects innovation to continue to become a primary issue in the course of trade discussions, negotiations and investment in the indigenous and the foreign direct investment sector here in terms of cost benefit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49780/17]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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With a small domestic market, further expansion in other markets is essential to Ireland’s continued economic growth.  Overall, export growth in Ireland in recent years has been exceptionally strong and exports continue to contribute positively to growth and employment.  The EU’s suite of Free Trade Agreements with third Countries helps to open new markets, break down barriers and provide new opportunities for Irish firms. 

The European Commission acts as lead negotiator on behalf of the EU Member States in Trade negotiations.  The EU’s suite of Free Trade Agreements coupled with our programme of trade and investment missions have provided a key foundation on which to further build our strong economic and trading links in export markets and these will continue into the future. 

Opening up the EU economy to trade and investment is a major source of productivity gains and private investment.  They bring ideas and innovation, new technologies and the best research.  They benefit consumers, lowering prices and broadening choice.  Providing greater choice of inputs directly contributes to the competitiveness of Irish companies at home and abroad.  Businesses which act upon the opportunities and possibilities for change through innovation successfully compete and even flourish in the face of the range of emerging adverse and fluctuating business and economic conditions.  In this regard, Ireland will continue to support the EU’s ambitious programme of negotiating new or updated Free Trade Agreements giving Irish Firms expanded market access and a predictable trading environment in third countries.