asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will confirm that a plan for the establishment of a research and development base for a Bio-technology industry has been prepared for the Government; if he will inform the House of the Government's evaluation of the future importance of such an industry in Ireland and, in this context, explain the Government's proposal to establish an appropriate scientific strategy and infrastructure; and if he will give a timetable for any proposed strategy.
Written Answers. - Bio-technology Industry
41.
Limerick East): There is not a plan for the establishment of a research and development base for a bio-technology industry in the formal terms suggested by the Deputy's question. There is, however, a proposal to set up a nationally structured activity based on strengthening the centres of expertise which already exist in five of our academic institutions. The funding of this proposal in common with other new proposals is currently being considered by the Government in the context of the 1987 Estimates.