This is the third report in this group.
Joint Research Programmes and Programmes for Co-ordinating Agricultural Research.
This proposal concerns joint research programmes and programmes for co-ordinating agricultural research. It will extend for five years from 1 January 1979 and carry a Community contribution of something in the region of 18.6 million EUA. The areas covered by the proposals are shown in paragraph 2. It can be seen from paragraph 3 that the emphasis will be on co-ordinating action and the full funding will be a national responsibility. It is considered that there will be considerable benefit in the development of research personnel. We understand that the proposal is likely to be adopted by the Council very soon. We acknowledge the assistance we received from An Foras Talúntais.
There will probably be less money available to us for individual research projects in this country. It is a pity that that seems to be the direction in which it is going. It is towards the co-ordination of research rather than money for research projects. Co-ordination can be a valuable asset to us.
It certainly seems to identify agro-research as part of the agricultural sector.
Paragraphs 1 to 4, inclusive, agreed to.
Draft Report agreed to.
Ordered: To report accordingly.