Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

I do not believe we need another implementation group when we already have the Cabinet sub-committee, a chief science adviser, a deputy chief science adviser and an interdepartmental committee for science, technology and innovation. I will certainly not add another layer to look at this issue.

It is important to look at the teaching of science in schools. The numbers taking science subjects at leaving certificate level have improved. Some years ago, there were fewer students studying chemistry than physics but that has reversed. New science laboratories and investment in science is making a difference for schools and students.

I accept those skills will be needed by the economy. I met some of the major investors and major multinationals in this country which are concerned about the falling number of graduates not only in the strict science area, but also in the technology area. That is why the Government is taking such a serious approach to this issue and to research and investment in the programme for research in third level institutions, PRTLI, etc. By looking at syllabi and making them more attractive, which is happening, by investing in schools and by providing ongoing training for teachers, significant change is being brought about.

It will not be possible to implement some of the recommendations in the task force report as some involve considerable cost — for example, having a technician in every school. If we do that, every other practical subject will require an assistant and other European countries do not do that. Of the 35 recommendations of the task force referred to the Department of Education and Science, we are making progress on 25 of them.

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