Dr. Gary Kearney:

We use research to build an evidence base for our communications, whether directly with consumers or in other areas of the food supply chain. When we commission research, we use our network of other food safety agencies to investigate whether similar work has been carried out in centres of excellence on this island and in the United Kingdom to ensure we do not duplicate research. Approximately 96% to 98% of our more than 100 research projects involve partners from both Northern Ireland and the Republic. Mr. Dolan referred to several institutions which are particularly strong in food safety research. They tend to carry out many of the projects in this area because they have the necessary capacity to do so. We also have a scientific advisory committee which advises us on research we might pursue and developments elsewhere in the world, as a way of ensuring taxpayers' money is put to good use and that we maximise the potential of research projects. The committee also helps us to identify gaps in food safety along the food chain from producer to the consumer and to find ways of harnessing research in consumer communications.