There is a universal need for the strengthening of the bonds between the university and industrial sectors of our society. The recent upheaval in the world economy has thrown a greater responsibility on to the university sector to contribute more to the research and product development needs of industry. The evolution of industry in Ireland is a particular case and at present, there is a vital need for more R&D activity which can be greatly assisted by the universities. It is important that the restrictions within the universities for cooperation with industry are removed, in particular those relating to the participation by academic staff. The healthy future of our industry requires greater interaction between industry and university at all levels.