Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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274. To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the trade missions that are scheduled for 2018; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53967/17]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Proposals for trade missions are developed by Enterprise Ireland in consultation with my Department on the basis of priority markets and specific interests of Enterprise Ireland client companies. Enterprise Ireland’s proposals for 2018 are currently under consideration and have not yet been finalised. Once finalised, Enterprise Ireland will submit the proposals to me for approval and the planned schedule of trade missions and events will be made public.

The extensive trade mission list will focus on enabling Enterprise Ireland client companies take advantage of global growth opportunities. The Enterprise Ireland Strategy 2017-2020 ‘Build Scale, Expand Reach’ is about strengthening Irish enterprise, across all regions, and expanding their reach in diverse global markets. In the context of the significant international economic challenges facing Ireland, most notably the United Kingdom decision to leave the EU, it is imperative that Irish companies build new and stronger trade links around the globe. Ministerial-led trade missions and international events are essential to supporting Irish companies expand their global footprint and realise their full growth potential.

Enterprise Ireland has delivered an impressive programme of international trade events to date in 2017, giving Irish companies the opportunity to meet with potential buyers and network with key influencers in countries around the world. In total, 57 internationally focused trade events were organised by Enterprise Ireland in 2017 including ministerial-led trade missions to Canada, Singapore and Japan, the UAE and Oman, and a major trade programme as part of the State visit to Australia.