Science, technology and innovation : delivering the smart economy

Abstract

In order to achieve recovery we can draw on our identified strengths but economic renewal requires the key policy priorities to be identified and the associated actions implemented. We require, firstly, to rediscover and embed the fundamental principle that a small, open economy must compete globally and be competitive globally. That reality must shape our responses to the daily pressures we face to sustain efficiency and drive higher value added output across the economy. Secondly, we must continue to invest in Ireland’s research base as an important cornerstone underpinning our future competitiveness and capacity to innovate. A strong science base matched by an evolution in the capacity of our enterprise sector to create knowledge, to innovate, and to exploit new knowledge across global markets is critical to Ireland’s future.