David Cullinane (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I welcome Ms Riordan and her team and wish her well in her new role. Hers is a very impressive CV.

I have no doubt Ms Riordan will bring her own unique experience to the job in which I wish her the very best of luck.

Regional disadvantage is the first issue with which I wish to deal. I have raised it at previous meetings of the committee and at other forums. It is one with which we must grapple, particularly in the context of the various strategies organisations have for the different regions. I am a big believer in research and innovation as drivers of the economy. I support Government policy on the move towards technological universities. I am from the south east and, as Ms Riordan will be aware, Carlow and Waterford institutes of technology have submitted an application for a technological university in the region. What is her view on that matter and what is the view of Science Foundation Ireland of the improvements to which this could give rise and the opportunities it could present for the region in the area of research and development? She may be aware of the work done by TSSG-ArcLabs in Waterford. It is one of the best research and development facilities in the country and very good at co-location in encouraging the private sector to become involved in research and development, new technologies, etc. It should be considered as a model for other locations. Will Ms Riordan outline her thoughts on the matter?

How does Ms Riordan see the work of Science Foundation Ireland impacting on tackling regional disadvantage and unemployment? The south east has higher levels of unemployment than elsewhere. Does Science Foundation Ireland have strategies to assist in this regard?

Research is obviously publicly funded. Some time ago the joint committee discussed with the Minister of State at the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Sean Sherlock, the OECD's commentary on patents and intellectual property. Who owns what is developed? The State invests a great deal in research and development and the OECD was somewhat critical of it in that respect. What is Ms Riordan's view on the State obtaining a return on its investments?

What changes would Ms Riordan like to see in Science Foundation Ireland as an organisation? Agenda 2020 states, "Ireland will be a global knowledge leader that places scientific and engineering research at the core of its society to power economic development and social progress". How does Ms Riordan see this being implemented?