The functions of the Minister are ¾

(a) to promote the objects of this Act;

(b) to encourage the development of industry policy for the benefit of the State;

(c) to facilitate the planning and development of the infrastructure necessary to secure projects of significance to the State;

(d) to liaise with, and receive advice from, the Council;

(e) to establish and manage technology parks;

(f) to promote State industry overseas through the establishment and maintenance of activities, relationships, representations and offices in selected countries;

(g) to encourage and facilitate the commercialization of the intellectual property and other resources of departments of the Public Service or of State agencies or instrumentalities;

(h) to use the expertise and resources of the department to provide consultative, advisory or other services for profit;

(i) to turn to account any intellectual property that is vested in the Minister;

(j) to apply for, hold, exploit and dispose of any patent, patent right, design right, copyright or similar right; and

(k) to further the objects of this Act by providing financial support, in accordance with Part 3.