Clare Daly (Dublin North, Socialist Party)
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Question 408: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his views that, when matters of science impact directly on education policy decisions, professionals not trained in a particular science to international standards should not be relied upon for clarification on issues pertaining to that science. [19531/12]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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When policy matters are under review in my Department it is desirable that, where possible, the views of parties with an interest in the specific matter will be solicited. As a general principle it is good practice that where clarification on an issue pertaining to a particular science is required in the context of policy considerations, the views of professionals, qualified in that science to acceptable standards, will be sought. It is not however desirable that views and comment on a particular matter of science will be reserved exclusively to those trained in the science. Such a restriction would have the potential to exclude the views of many stakeholders, interested parties or indeed professionals qualified in related disciplines. Moreover, it is not considered appropriate or indeed possible to limit debate on any matter of public policy to those with either qualifications or interest in the policy matter as to do so would obstruct to legitimate roles of a range of interested parties, including members of the Oireachtas and decision making bodies such as the Courts.