The Intellectual Property Unit (IPU) of Department of Jobs, Enterprise & Innovation 
has responsibility for certain legislative and policy matters relating to intellectual property.
The Patents Office provides input in the drafting of certain legislation and in the formulation/implementation of policy in relation to the development of the system of intellectual property protection.
In November 2009, the Controller of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks was given responsibility for the operations of the IPU. This dual responsibility has resulted in bringing the operational and policy functions closer together and has facilitated greater co-ordination in the delivery of IP services in the State.