Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the conclusion of the Stages of this Bill. Since its foundation Science Foundation Ireland has made a phenomenal contribution to the country. It has transformed the research and development sector which is one of the quiet heroes of our economic renewal. On that basis many new jobs have been created in recent years, with many more to come. During the course of the debate concerns were expressed about the realignment and remit of the agency. The Minister will monitor these concerns to ensure the value of this significant investment is not lost. In particular, I refer to the independence which accompanies this investment and which must not be lost.

I welcome the all-island basis of the Bill. It would be good to see more such legislation in other areas. When we act to our strengths on the island, we can do so much better in all of the indices referred to by the Minister of State.

It would be inappropriate for me not to note that the Bill was initiated in the Seanad by the Minister, Deputy Richard Bruton, who is trying to convince us that that Chamber is of no use, yet he initiates most of his Bills in it. He would be homeless were he to achieve his aim. No Bills would be initiated by his Department if there were no Seanad. The value of the other House is illustrated when the director of elections for the Government decides to use it to initiate his own Bills. However, this Bill is worthy of support and I look forward to working with the Minister.

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