Research and Development

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 May 2023

Tuesday, 9 May 2023

Questions (726)

Paul Murphy

Question:

726. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science in relation to the Research and Innovation Bill 2023, if he considered the under-representation of research and researchers in the arts and humanities and social sciences, given that most western countries have specific funding agencies and programmes for social sciences and humanities research; the reason this Bill appears to have the intention of eradicating them altogether; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21272/23]

Written answers

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

The Impact 2030 strategy clearly sets out the Government’s ambition for Ireland to be a research and innovation leader. The objectives of that strategy include the promotion and support of excellence in research and innovation across all disciplines, spanning fundamental research to applied research activity. Importantly, the strategy also highlights the importance of growing Ireland’s international offering and reputation in the field of excellent research and innovation. Far diminishing the role of any discipline, the new agency will put all disciplines on an equal statutory footing for the first time.

I might add that the Government decided that as a matter of policy there should be an Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Council within the organisational structures of the new agency. This recognises the distinctive nature of AHSS research and its importance in Irish society. The legislation will, therefore, enhance the role of the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences in contributing to challenge-based research, which is instrumental in addressing the complex problems facing society now and in the future.