The policy concept of Regional Systems of Innovation has emerged in response to the growing recognition of the role that regions can play in economic development. To date, little, if any, attention has been given to this concept in Irish industrial policy documents and this study aims to place Regional Systems of Innovation within an Irish context.\ud
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As a comparative study, it explores this concept of Regional Systems of Innovation in relation to the Mid-West region of Ireland and Ringkjobing county in West Jutland, Denmark. It begins with an extensive review of existing literature on innovation theory and practice, and on industrial policies with particular reference to Ireland. It examines past and present Irish innovation and technology policies within the larger context of the Irish National System of Innovation. The study then narrows to focus solely on regional innovation theory and the components of a Regional System of Innovation are constructed.\ud
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The primary research phase involved in-depth interviews with key players in each region, selected on the basis of their specialist knowledge. An identification of the need for, existence and strength of Regional Systems of Innovation in the respective regions is sought. Findings suggest that the need for such systems exists. It can be found in Ringkjobing county, despite its failure to commit fully to the process of regional cooperation. In the Mid-West region, however, many crucial elements of the system are weak or even non-existent. These include, the weak state of the Irish local Government system, the neglect of traditional industries, a weak technical orientation and the culture of dependency and clientelism which prevails. Finally, from these findings a potential future direction for Irish industrial policy is indicated