Ireland's continued economic growth depends on the ability of firms to constantly innovate, according to the Minister of State for Science and Technology.
Mr Noel Treacy was speaking yesterday at the launch of the National Innovation Awards. Part of the Government's Science, Technology and Innovation awareness programme, the awards are co-sponsored by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and The Irish Times.
Now in their fifth year, the awards are designed to highlight the importance of innovation and technology in Irish business and among the general public.
"In preparing for the future, we have to recognise that the key to success will be our ability to compete. Innovation is a key ingredient to sustained competitiveness," Mr Treacy said.
The managing director of the The Irish Times, Mr Nick Chapman, said the sponsorship reinforced the company's commitment to innovation.
Mr Donal O'Connor, senior partner, PwC, said the ability to constantly innovate was a vital ingredient to profitable and sustainable growth.
Last year's winner was Dublin-based Scientific Systems Ltd. Awards are presented in four categories - small business; medium business; large business; and new technology-based business. Each category winner will receive a trophy and £2,000 (€2,540), with the overall winner receiving an additional £3,000.
Dr Patrick Galvin will chair a panel of seven judges. Application forms, which must be submitted with a written proposal by Friday, May 25th, can be obtained from Ms Denise Graham of WHPR at 01 4960244 or by clicking on www.science.ie.