Harney 'greatly encouraged' by market development of Irish firms

Investments totalling €60 million have been made by 88 Enterprise Ireland-backed, Irish-owned companies in the past 17 months in expansions and start-up projects in software and international services, according to the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Ms Harney.

Ms Harney told an Enterprise Ireland forum in Dublin yesterday that, while current global economic conditions are difficult, she is "greatly encouraged by the response of Irish companies in ramping up their efforts in market development".

She added: "Already this year more than 100 businesses have established an overseas market presence, all 50 of Enterprise Ireland's incubator units worldwide are occupied and almost 7,000 client-buyer meetings have taken place, an increase of 30 per cent over last year."

The sector is still the fastest-growing sector in the Irish economy and companies are continuing to compete aggressively in international markets, she added.

"The integration of innovative thinking, cutting-edge research and development, and finely honed sales and marketing skills will drive successful companies through difficult times," she said.

"It is people and intellectual capital that form the bedrock of Ireland's global success and, with a firm focus on international markets, Irish companies will be well-positioned to benefit as tough market conditions ease."

Last year Irish software and international services companies recorded €1.5 billion in exports, up 28 per cent on 2000. Employment in the sector stands at 21,000.

The Tánaiste was speaking at Enterprise Ireland's "Negotiating for Success" forum, which focused on successful sales techniques in a difficult selling environment.

The conference was addressed by former Burger King chairman Mr Barry Gibbons, Irish-American businessman and president of Meredith Broadcasting in Los Angeles Mr Kevin O'Brien, and author of How Winners Sell, Mr Dave Stein.