My Department scheduled an Expenditure Review of Science & Technology Spending in 2004. The Expenditure Review was based on data and findings from three independent evaluations of individual Science and Technology Programmes, in the period 2002 to 2004, commissioned by the Department and managed by Forfás. The Expenditure Review focussed on the principal Research Technological Development and Innovation in Industry measures under the National Development Plan 2000-2006. The schemes covered by the Expenditure Review were:
The R & D Capability Grants Scheme;
The Research Technology & Innovation Competitive Grants Scheme;
The Enterprise Ireland Collaboration Programme.
The purpose of the Expenditure Review was to provide a systematic analysis of what was actually achieved by expenditure under these schemes and to provide a basis on which informed decisions could be made on priorities in this area, and thus to ensure that the benefits arising from expenditure in this area is maximised.
The Expenditure Review made a strong case for the continuation of State support in the areas of Science and Technological development. The review made significant and comprehensive recommendations on the overall usefulness of the agency supports for research and innovation in the business sector relative to national objectives with a focus on whether they constituted value for money and efficient use of public funds. These recommendations sought to enhance the quality and quantity of research supported by the enterprise agencies.
The Review was completed in 2005. Many of its recommendations were taken into account when drafting the Strategy for Science Technology and Innovation (2006 — 2013). This Strategy provides the opportunity to ensure that maximum economic and social benefits are derived from the Government's commitment of €8.2 billion to this area under the National Development Plan. The Strategy gives breadth and depth to a vision for a knowledge economy and society in Ireland backed by a wide cross section of investments by various departments and agencies, with clear targets and clear outcomes to be achieved. The Strategy is currently in the process of being implemented.