Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We have maintained that the research policy staff will have the right to publish their findings independently of the view of the Minister. We have also strengthened the National Competitiveness Council with the addition of six industrial partners. The Forfás resource services the National Competitiveness Council which is entirely independent in the publication of its work. Forfás will have independence in publishing its research independently of me as Minister, but in addition, it will have through the National Competitiveness Council a forum of outside interest which it serves to ensure an independent critique of how we are faring in terms of competitiveness across the spectrum.