Dáil debates

Tuesday, 29 March 2011

4:00 pm

Photo of Seán SherlockSeán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)

We already have a process in place which adopts the clustering approach and brings together industry and research institutions. The purpose is to create synergies between industry and the research function within third level institutions in order that research findings can be commercialised. In the applied nanotechnology sector, for example, companies such as Aerogen, Analog Devices, Intel and Medtronic are all well established and already have well established links between industry and the research component. The Deputy has raised a valid point as to when research takes place and when the findings are commercialised. A relationship is developing between Science Foundation Ireland and Enterprise Ireland and it is growing deeper as the months pass and the sector becomes a more important part of the economy and our recovery. It has become glaringly obvious that we need to ensure the two agencies work side by side to ensure jobs are created as a result.

I will revert to the Deputy on the question of value for money and the return on our investment. I have the same question and, therefore, beg the Deputy's indulgence in giving a response. At this time I am being briefed as a new Minister of State and only developing my knowledge of the situation. These questions are inherent in the process. I will be happy to share information with the Deputy in due course.

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