IBEC and the head of Microsoft in Ireland have welcomed the appointment of Maire Geoghegan-Quinn to the post of EU Research and Innovation Commissioner.

IBEC says the post will be central to providing high quality jobs and prosperity and is fundamental to competitiveness.

Microsoft boss Paul Rellis says its fantastic news that this strategically important portfolio will be managed by Ireland’s Commissioner.

Environment Minister John Gormley says Mrs. Geoghegan-Quinn will bring a lot to the position.

“Maire Geoghan Quinn is a person of huge experience and competence” he said.

“This portfolio is, I think, an exciting portfolio in the context of the smart economy – it’s where Ireland should be going”.

“We see this as a way of really putting Europe at the forefront” he added.