In its Annual Report for 2007 published today, Tuesday 24 June, Enterprise Ireland reported an exceptional performance by client companies in global markets with exports hitting €13.181 Billion. New export sales of € 1.445 Billion in 2007 brought total new export sales over the 2005-2007 strategy period to €4.419 Billion against the target of €3 Billion. This represents strong progress in the face of intensifying global competition and increasing market challenges. As a result, more Irish companies than ever before are building strong sustainable positions in the international marketplace.

Total employment in Enterprise Ireland supported companies was 153,670, a net gain of 1,321.

Speaking at the launch of the Annual Report, Frank Ryan, Chief Executive Officer, Enterprise Ireland said: "The new export sales over the last three years have been won by our client companies tenaciously pursuing new market opportunities, intensifying existing customer relationships and opening up new markets with innovative products and services. Their exporting success is directly linked to advancements in innovation, research, productivity, management development and entrepreneurship.

"The steady growth achieved by our client companies in 2007 was made in a much more challenging global economic environment. Competition in international markets is intensifying and notwithstanding recent achievements there is no room for complacency. Exceptional effort is required over the life of our current three year strategy Transforming Irish Industry 2008-2010 to deliver the targets set.

MIRC features in Enterprise Ireland
Annual Report 2007

"While the scale of the challenge for our clients cannot be underestimated there is an underlying resilience that gives cause for optimism. For example in 2007 exports to the Americas grew by 11% despite the weakening dollar against the Euro. This is a remarkable achievement during a period of less certainty and illustrates what can be achieved by client focused, ambitious companies with innovative products and services. I am confident that our clients will continue to demonstrate the leadership and investment in the innovation and research and development that ultimately lead to growth in international markets." Frank Ryan said.