Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 12 Oct 2000

Vol. 524 No. 1

Written Answers. - Science Graduates.

Enda Kenny

Question:

72 Mr. Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the plans she has to ensure that Ireland has sufficient science graduates to meet the requirements of the economy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21643/00]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

I am very conscious of the importance of science graduates to the future development of the Irish economy and of the need to ensure that supply increases to meet the needs of society at large. To assist in this objective, my Department has introduced a number of initiatives to satisfy the requirements of the relevant industry sectors in the coming years. These include establishing the expert group on future skills needs, the skills awareness group, and the science technology and awareness programme, all of which are administered by Forfás on behalf of my Department. The aim of these initiatives is to assess future skills requirements, to inform students of the opportunities for and benefits of a career in the science field and to notify them of the third level choices available to them.

The awareness programme also endeavours to demonstrate to all the importance of science, technology and innovation in developing leading edge industries and skilled jobs in the economy, and details the exciting career opportunities that stem from study in this area. It also highlights the creative opportunities for children arising in the sciences. In addition to these initiatives, my Department's science and technology development programme enhances career prospects for scientific graduates by funding research in industry, including some direct funding for students undertaking post-graduate training in research.

I draw the Deputy's attention specifically to the second report of the expert group on future skills needs. Using data from the CSO and the Higher Education Authority, the group constructed a model to estimate the supply of and demand for chemical and biological science graduates up to the year 2005. The group's recommendations, which are designed to prevent the possible opening of a skills gap, are currently being given active consideration by a range of agencies and Departments, with a view to appropriate implementation. Their effect should be seen in the increased numbers involved in the sciences in due course.

Success will be dependent on a concerted effort between Government, the industrial development agencies, the education sector and relevant companies. I am confident that their combined endeavours will ensure sufficient supply to meet the requirements of the economy.