Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 March 2015
219. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if her attention has been drawn to the concerns of a substantial number of science academics that the current science policies of the Government are negatively affecting research and science education; if she will meet with academics to discuss their concerns first-hand, with a view to making changes to current policies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12389/15]
View answerThe Strategy for Science, Technology & Innovation (2006 to 2013) was a broad based strategy which covered funding for research and innovation across all disciplines and across the full continuum of research from basic to applied, as well as commercialisation of research. The Government remains committed to the importance of research given the key role that it plays in underpinning economic recovery and maintaining Ireland's competitiveness, and also in recognition of the vital role of research-informed teaching in our higher education institutions. The formulation of the new Strategy provides a clear opportunity for Ireland to develop a new whole-of-Government strategy for research and innovation that can build on the progress made to date and is timely as Ireland moves into a new phase of economic growth and societal development.
Excellence in research will continue to be a cornerstone of our strategy and we must continue to have a strong and excellent research base. The strength of our research base is an important factor in the quality and relevance of teaching in our higher education system and a critical function of the new Strategy will be the further improvement of the linkages between the research and innovation performers within the Irish research system.
The open letter from "Irish Scientists for Basic Research" is a welcome part of the consultation process designed to inform the development of the new Strategy. This letter and other submissions received will be considered by the Interdepartmental Committee, which has been tasked with developing proposals for this new Strategy. I am represented on this Committee by officials from my Department and they are closely engaged with the process. The Committee expects to complete its work by Summer 2015. The issue of future funding for all areas of research will be considered in the context of the completion of this work.
