Brian O'Shea
Question:488 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will introduce a minimum national postgraduate support (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11920/98]
Written Answers. - Higher Education Grants.
Brian O'Shea
Question:490 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will assist the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment in resolving the difficulties encountered by Irish postgraduate students with one scheme which is currently operated by that Department (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11922/98]
I propose to answer Questions Nos. 488 and 490 together.
The interdepartmental committee on science, technology and innovation, which is chaired by Deputy Treacy, Minister of State with responsibility for Science, Technology and Commerce, provides an effective mechanism for consideration of science and technology priorities between all Departments involved in funding science and technology including, in particular, the Departments of Education and Science and Enterprise, Trade and Employment. In addition, this Government has ensured the effective co-ordination of science and technology through the positioning of the Minister of State with responsibility for Science, Technology and Commerce in the two Departments.
In 1998, for the first time the Government has provided substantial dedicated funding for the funding of research and development through the Department of Education and Science. The new allocation of £5 million has been included in the 1998 Estimates for the Department of Education and Science for recurrent funding of research and development projects. It is envisaged that the funding will be available for research and development in the humanities, the social sciences and science and technology.
The Higher Education Authority is being consulted about the administration of this funding. It has been asked to develop proposals and mechanisms for expenditure of this research and development provision on the basis of making funding available to universities and institutes of technology through a competitive process. The Higher Education Authority has consulted widely in its consideration of the issues and has, inter alia, considered the views of the Irish Research Scientists Association.
Taking account of the advice of the Higher Education Authority, Deputy Treacy, is to announce decisions this evening relating to mechanisms for the expenditure of the additional £5 million allocation.
Expenditure under the student support schemes enables students who have limited means and the academic potential to benefit from post-graduate research courses in third level institutions to be able to do so. Over 3,200 students pursuing post graduate studies were in receipt of means tested support of over £9 million in the 1996-7 academic year. It is not my intention to rearrange these student support mechanisms at this time.