John Halligan (Waterford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I have had a chance to look at it. I should point out that we have programmes for frontier research and the Laureate Awards. That is managed by the Irish Research Council, which has a budget of €20 million. This provides 30 Laureate Awards.

I do not support the Bill. I welcome the opportunity to discuss the important role of Science Foundation Ireland with the Deputy and I acknowledge his commitment to research and development, innovation and so forth. When Science Foundation Ireland was established 15 years ago, it had all-party support. That support was also evident when the foundation's role was extended in 2013. Having spoken to Deputy Micheál Martin and other Members of the Houses - and I know Deputy Lawless has good time for Science Foundation Ireland - I am aware that their support continues today. Incidentally, it should not be basic science versus applied science, and we do not necessarily have to undertake a review of the foundation's awards programme in respect of balancing research.

There has been commentary that Science Foundation Ireland funds too much applied research. In fact, the majority of its funding, 70%, is for basic research. If one digs deeply into Science Foundation Ireland, approximately 50% of its funding is committed to Science Foundation Ireland research centres, which perform applied and basic research, or ABC. These are facts and figures, so it is incorrect to say that. I am not saying the Deputy is saying it but there are indications-----