Bruton: Lisbon move a natural progression

The Government came under fire from all sides of the political spectrum for failing to secure the future of the prestigious Web Summit in Dublin after its founder announced it was to up sticks for Lisbon from 2016.

Opposition TDs labelled the development an “embarrassment” and a “massive reputational hit” while others accused Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Jobs Minister Richard Bruton of failing to act on concerns raised by the event’s organisers.

Renua Ireland leader Lucinda Creighton said: “This has huge, not just economic implications for Dublin, but huge implications for Ireland pitching itself as a hub for technology.