Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

The interdepartmental group plays a central role in monitoring the implementation of Government policy and research activity, and the role of the Taoiseach's Department is essential in terms of cross-governmental statistics. Does the Taoiseach agree that the evidence shows that Ireland's research reputation is at its highest in its history? From his discussions with his representatives on the interdepartmental group, will he confirm that recently released statistics show substantial improvements in our world rankings on research and that these rankings should be accepted, acknowledged, protected and prioritised, rather than dismissed for political advantage?

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