Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 June 2023
94. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the steps which he intends to take to improve the interface between the wider research community and Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16973/23]
View answerThere a number of initiatives already underway and others planned to improve the interface between the wider research community and Government.
Earlier this month, I established the Research and Innovation Policy Advisory Forum. As envisaged in Impact 2030, this innovative Forum will provide an agreed structure for engagement between members of the research and innovation community and policy decision makers. An Expressions of Interest process is underway and I look forward to chairing the inaugural meeting in the Autumn.
In line with the Impact 2030 recommendations, my Department has established an Evidence for Policy function. This aims to deliver a framework to enhance long term linkages between the public policy and research sectors, and to effectively embed research in policy development and/or its implementation.
A Civil Service Research Network has been established. Comprised of research leads from across all government departments, this offers a forum for departments to share best practice.
Science Foundation Ireland's Public Service Fellowship offers researchers a unique opportunity to be temporarily seconded to Government Departments and Agencies to work on specific projects where they can add value resulting in mutually beneficial outcomes.
The Irish Research Council manages a number of programmes that feature research strands in partnership with a variety of Government Departments and agencies.
Looking forward, the landmark Research and Innovation Bill will establish a new competitive research and innovation agency. The agency will also have an important role in supporting evidence for policy development and in working with a range of Government Departments in terms of running funding calls. I am committed to ensuring that the views of the research community are captured and reflected on as the implementation of the new agency proceeds.
New science advice structures will be established shortly which include a National Science Advice Forum chaired by a Government Science Advisor. Part of this role is to develop the capacity of Departments in relation to science advice so they have their own capacity to seek it out and receive it when they need it.
