Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 29 Jun 1994

Vol. 444 No. 6

Written Answers. - Research and Development Funding.

Jim Higgins

Ceist:

71 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment the amount of finance made available in the years 1993 and 1994 from Exchequer and EU sources for basic research; the percentage this investment represents of gross domestic product; the number of companies which have received research and development grants in the years 1993 and 1994; and the monitoring and follow-up procedures, if any, which are in place in order to establish the results of such investment; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Enterprise and Employment (Mr. Quinn)

The most recent data in relation to spending on basic research in Ireland is in respect of 1992.

In that year, total Government spending on basic research activities amounted to £9.9 million. This figure includes direct and indirect Government funding for basic research activities in the higher education sector, as well as basic research performed or funded by Government agencies.

Expressed as a percentage of GDP, this figure represents 0.034 per cent.

The number of companies to receive research and development grants in the years 1993 and 1994 is 265.

The monitoring and follow up of grant aided companies is primarily a matter for Forbairt. I understand however, that the agency's procedures include:

1. A requirement that all grant aided companies produce Auditor's Certificates certifying approved eligible expenditure.

2. Visits to the company in question by the Forbairt Project Executive who carries out an evaluation of the approved project, including ensuring that the incurred expenditure is in accordance with the original application for funding and is in line with progress.

3. Forbairt Project Executive ensures that the company is in full compliance with the Grant Agreement and Grant Inspector carries out a detailed evaluation of all equipment purchased.