The Government and State agency trade mission to Australia created 26 new jobs and generated €10 million worth of contracts, according to Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation Richard Bruton.

The Minister, who led a trade delegation organised by State agencies Enterprise Ireland and the IDA, confirmed yesterday it had returned with €10 million in contracts and 26 new jobs.

Thirty-two companies travelled on the mission, which visited Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra.

The Minister gave six interviews to the local media, held seven meetings with executives of Australian companies considering investing in the Republic and attended six political meetings and events.