IRDG Network to Promote R&D Irish Industry
5th July 2009
An Tánaiste, Mary Coughlan T.D., launched the IRDG Enterprise Innovation Network (EIN) in Dublin today (5th of July 2009). Established by the Industry Research and Development Group (IRDG), with funding from Enterprise Ireland, this Enterprise Innovation Network will promote R&D to companies of all sizes in Ireland. IRDG plans to significantly increase the number of companies supported by IRDG over the lifetime of the EIN which runs from 2009-2012.
Speaking at the launch of the new IRDG Enterprise Innovation Network the Tánaiste said “I am delighted to launch the IRDG Enterprise Innovation Network for R&D performing companies today. Since its formation in 1992, IRDG has been at the forefront of championing R&D in Ireland. The EIN scheme will enable IRDG to build on its experience, and provide a larger number of companies with the support they need in increasing Research, Development and Innovation (RD&I) in Ireland”.
Mr. John Minihan, Chairman of IRDG welcomed the support from Government via Enterprise Ireland and said “IRDG has expanded its activities and resources with the establishment of the IRDG EIN and the hiring of additional staff. This will enable IRDG to reach a higher national representative role through growth. The membership drive has already started and early results are encouraging. In addition we will be providing input to the Government of the key RD&I issues affecting our members”. Concluding John Minihan said “It is imperative at this time that companies get involved in RD&I in order to be ready for and take advantage of the next economic upturn. IRDG is there to help and advise them”.
The IRDG Enterprise Innovation Network will receive €200,000 per annum for three years from Enterprise Ireland to manage the network. Speaking at the launch, Feargal Ó Móráin, Executive Director of Enterprise Ireland said “Enterprise Ireland is making this investment to enable the IRDG to build on the strong relationships they already have with their member companies to provide independent and experience-based advice on the innovation and R&D options open to companies in Ireland. Research and innovation are critical to improving Ireland’s competitiveness and increasing the volume of Irish exports”.
IRDG will initially focus on contacting 769 companies with a view to increasing RD&I involvement throughout Ireland. This will enable IRDG to grow its membership base.
IRDG is an independent non-profit representative organisation consisting of companies engaged in product and process RD&I. The main roles of IRDG are to provide advice and assistance to members on RD&I matters and to provide services such as assistance in preparing in preparing project proposals for RD&I funding and advice on R&D Tax Credits and the Patent Royalty Scheme.
For more information please contact:
Dr. Dick Kavanagh, Managing Director of IRDG -
Email: dick_kavanagh@irdg.ie or Tel: 012374671
