Dr. John Walsh:

I agree with congress’s proposal. An inclusive board is important. A board should include a majority of active researchers but also representation for early career and postdoctoral researchers. That is important.

I wish to briefly comment on the question the Deputy asked Mr. Jones, which is relevant. The mission of Science Foundation Ireland has really narrowed in recent years. It has become more economically focused on niche areas. We fear that a focus on commercialisation and niche areas might dominate the new agency at the expense of individual awards and the arts-humanities.