Focus switches to hi-tech research, development and innovation projects

THE IDA will continue to focus on hi-tech research, development and innovation (RD&I) investment projects as it looks to increase inward investment levels and meet ambitious targets for the coming decade.

The agency’s end-of-year report for 2010, published yesterday, detailed increases in new foreign jobs, investments, and companies investing here for the first time. Investment in the RD&I area alone topped €500 million last year.

“It’s clear that the Government’s investment strategy for science, technology and innovation is the right one to create high-quality jobs and support export-led economic recovery,” said Enterprise, Trade and Innovation Minister Batt O’Keeffe.