John Halligan (Waterford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is interesting that when one talks about the PRTLI, Innovation 2020 includes an action to scope out and develop a successor to the PRTLI in support of new investment in research, which will encompass infrastructure, including buildings and equipment. It also contains actions to increase the enrolment of PhDs and research masters. It is important to note, however, that we are operating in a tight fiscal space. We are coming from a very poor fiscal space. If one considers the investment we have been making while coming from an exceptionally bad place, then I think we are doing exceptionally well. It will take a number of years.

We already have significant investments in both universities and institutes of technology. As the Deputy will be aware, many of our 17 dedicated research centres operate from universities and institutes of technology. It is a good question regarding buildings, equipment and infrastructure. I get that from representatives of institutes of technology and universities to whom I speak. However, there is a plan of action and there is significant money, amounting to €200 million, which is part of a public private partnership. I am confident that will bear fruit over the next number of years.