Commenting on the report, Communications, Climate Action and Environment Minister Denis Naughten, welcomed Geoscience Ireland companies' "continued success in creating highly skilled, export-orientated jobs in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) related sectors. While construction and infrastructure activity is increasing strongly in Ireland, a continued focus on the export potential for Irish geoscience and engineering SMEs must remain a key target for job creation". Key metrics emerging from the recent survey reveal that:

• 54 per cent of Geoscience Ireland companies reported growth in job numbers, while 35 per cent reported no change and 11 per cent reported job losses;
• The total employed by Geoscience Ireland companies exceeds 1,550;
• Turnover by Geoscience Ireland companies in 2015 totalled €311 million, an increase of 12 per cent from 2014;
• 69 per cent of turnover came from international markets;
• Contractors accounted for 66 per cent of turnover, while consultants and surveyors accounted for the balance; and,
• 86 per cent of Geoscience Ireland companies expressed concern regarding the possible effects of Brexit.

Infrastructure development remains the strongest performing sector, while elements of the beleaguered extractive industries show some signs of recovery this year. The UK, West Africa and the Gulf countries were the more buoyant markets. However, the UK outlook is tempered by concerns regarding sterling volatility and economic contraction arising from Brexit, while instability in Turkey has also affected some projects.