DUBLIN: New research shows that Ireland’s design sector is responsible for €38bn in exports, with 48,000 people working in design roles across the country.
The data, which follows the Year of Irish Design 2015 (ID2015) project, shows that export growth in the sector rose by €20m last year.
Figures also show more than 370 new design businesses were registered here in 2015, while Ireland’s design-sector exports are higher relative to the UK.
ID2015 was a year-long initiative exploring, promoting, and celebrating Irish design throughout the country and internationally.
It was convened by the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland (DCCoI), in collaboration with partner organisations, on behalf of the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Enterprise Ireland.
Commenting upon publication of the figures, Business and Employment Minister Ged Nash said: “ID2015 confirms that design creativity is alive and well in Ireland both at the individual and the business level.
“But it also tells us that investing in our design capability and performance will yield new export sales, create quality jobs and boost Ireland’s international creative brand.”
