strategy statement03 - 05

1.12.1 Cross-cutting issues in Science, Technology and Innovation

The Tánaiste chairs a high level interdepartmental committee, representative of all Departments having a role in science and technology matters. This Committee acts as a forum where crosscutting issues are presented and discussed with a view to enhancing cohesion and synergy across the National System of Innovation.

The NDP spend on Research, Technological Development and Innovation under the Productive Sector OP is monitored by a committee chaired by the Managing Authority based within the Department. It is representative of Government Departments, EU Commission, regional assemblies and wider interests.

The Tánaiste represents Ireland’s position on research matters at the newly formed EU Competitiveness Council, and in negotiating and managing Ireland’s participation in EU research programmes. The Department has put in place a network of National Contact Points and National Delegates across Departments and agencies to give advice, practical information and assistance to potential participants wishing to secure funding from the Sixth Framework Programme.

During 2002 the Tánaiste sought approval of Government for the establishment by the Irish Council for Science and Technology (ICSTI) of a Commission to bring forward proposals on developing an appropriate framework for an overarching national policy for research and technological development. The Report of the Commission will be a catalyst to enhance systems and structures for cohesive development and progressing of cross-cutting issues.

The Knowledge Economy dimension of the Information Society is of particular strategic significance for the Department. Continuing economic development requires the capacity to analyse future developments, to innovate, to identify and utilise cutting-edge technologies, and to develop as a learning community. Our concern is to ensure that Irish enterprise can meet the

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Department of Enterprise, Trade & Employment

technological, competitiveness and strategic challenges offered by the Knowledge Economy and exploit the opportunities offered by information and communications technologies (ICTs) as they evolve and become more pervasive.

Despite the current downturn in the global economy, it is generally accepted that these technologies will continue to be a major driver of productivity and growth in industry, services, and the wider economy. Enterprise, whether traditional or new, can create competitive advantage through strategic use of ICTs. A case in point is eProcurement which offers opportunities to develop new markets.

The Department is working to encourage and promote eBusiness awareness and ICT adoption, especially amongst SMEs and microenterprises in line with the current Information Society Action Plan, “New Connections”.

In that regard, the Department has strong linkages with the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, and is particularly concerned to ensure vigorous competition among telecommunications service providers aimed at supplying low cost broadband connectivity throughout the State.

Industrial development has been a driving force in modernising the economy and increasing standards of living. However, there have been environmental and social costs associated with this progress, for example, congestion and pollution. There is growing consensus that future industrial, commercial and trade policies must seek to reconcile economic, social and environmental goals so that the adverse impacts of industrial development are minimised. These concerns have led to a focus on sustainable development.

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Achieving sustainable development poses a major challenge for governments, industry and society in general, as it requires taking a long-term perspective on the consequences of our activities today. For governments in particular, it means that the three