Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

I refer to the number of research and development personnel. It is projected that to meet the target, Ireland will need to have 8,000 research and development personnel in place by 2010. The report on future skills estimated that, within current constraints across a range of fronts, the shortfall would be between 3,500 and 3,600. A number of initiatives have been taken, not least by Science Foundation Ireland, to ensure the quality of personnel required to advance Ireland's position in research and development are attracted to the State.

I launched a programme on behalf of the heads of universities last week to facilitate personnel who take up these positions. Progress has been made, for example, in identifying the difficulties they face. The programme being implemented by the heads of universities will facilitate the transfer of qualified personnel to the State and will address many issues that have caused difficulty in attracting such people.

The Deputy is correct that Ireland was a late starter in this area. Prior to 1998, no Government spending was directed at science and technology or research and development in the context of the Barcelona and Lisbon targets. That has been addressed quickly. The Minister is correct to ensure intermediate targets are set and met and, if they are not, action should be taken to meet them. No external reports are required in this regard.

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