asked the Minister for Finance the nature and effect of any discussions that have taken place between this country and the European Committee on Co-operation in Science and Technology, with particular reference to pollution, telecommunications, transport, information science, meteorology and oceanography.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Science and Technology.
28.
I presume that the Deputy is referring to the Programme of European Co-operation in Science and Technology, generally referred to as the COST Programme, which is administered by the EEC, but includes a total of 19 countries.
Irish involvement consists of participation in collaborative projects in the areas mentioned by the Deputy. These projects are at various stages of development.
29.
asked the Minister for Finance if any reports have been received from the committee of CERD with regard to determining research and development objectives and priorities in the fields of science and technology.
The European Committee for Research and Development, CERD, was set up by the Commission of the European Communities in April, 1973. Its members are eminent scientists and technologists chosen from all the member states of the Community. As CERD reports to the Commission of the European Communities, the question of this Government or any other Government of a Community member state receiving reports from this body does not arise.
30.
asked the Minister for Finance the steps, if any, that have been taken by the Government to define objectives and to pursue a common policy in the field of science and technology which will be coordinated within the institutions of the EEC.
The Paris Summit Conference of October, 1972, requested the Community's institutions to decide by January, 1974, on a programme of action together with a precise time-table and appropriate measures in the field of science and technology which would lead to the defining of objectives and the development of a common policy. In accordance with this request the Council on 14th January, 1974, adopted a Resolution, OJ No. 07, 29 January, 1974, concerning the co-ordination of national policies and the definition of projects of Community interest in the field of science and technology.
This resolution provides for a programme of examination and comparison of national policies in the field of science and technology in order to eliminate unnecessary duplication and to ensure effective co-ordination.
It also established a Scientific and Technical Research Committee, CREST, consisting of representatives of the member states and the Commission. The functions of CREST are to advise the Commission and the Council on research and development problems, to assist the Commission in preparing its proposals and to coordinate all aspects of national research policies not subject to military or industrial secrecy. This country is making a full contribution to the work of this committee.
The new statutory body of science and technology, which is to be established in the near future, will have among its aims the main function of the formulation of a national science policy, including the determination of priority and the preparation of a national scientific programme. The work of this body should, therefore, be of particular value in our interactions with the community institutions.