Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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671. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the engagements he has had with Science Foundation Ireland in relation to its participation in the Ireland House strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33661/20]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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In June 2018, the Government launched the Global Ireland initiative, whichaims to double the impact of Ireland’s global footprint by 2025. Team Ireland – our Embassy network and State Agencies — plays a vital role in increasing our exports to existing and new markets, and attracting economic activity, investment and tourism to Ireland. Under Global Ireland, relevant Government Departments and Agencies are working together to optimise their capabilities and synergies overseas.

Science Foundation Ireland, the national foundation for investment in scientific and engineering research, works to progress Ireland’s society and economy by supporting the best scientific and engineering research while building an awareness of the role, impact and opportunities that science creates. It works internationally to enhance cooperation and collaboration, to support investment in Ireland and to work with foundations and groups that fund research of strategic interest to Ireland.

My Department has met with representatives of Science Foundation Ireland to discuss its contribution to Global Ireland and more specifically to discuss its presence on the ground in the United States, and how Ireland’s diplomatic Missions can assist SFI to promote Ireland’s research and innovation agenda, including through the Ireland House model.

The Embassy network in other parts of the world support SFI in furthering research and innovation linkages as and when there is a need and opportunity. Missions also periodically provide research and innovation policy insights and highlight developments and possible opportunities from their accredited countries.