Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Of course, what I say is true in that I can direct only agencies under my remit, but the Deputy is entirely correct that, generally, other parts of government follow suit as well. The main funders of PhD researchers, from a State point of view, include individual institutions, SFI, the IRC, Teagasc and the HRB. The HRB has moved, the IRC and SFI are now moving and Teagasc will consider the matter. Moreover, I know from conversations with individual university presidents that they, too, are looking at this issue. In fairness, they have been among the strongest advocates for our PhD researchers and I expect announcements in that regard.

Budgets, however, are about trying to strike a balance between the variety of priorities I have within my Department's Vote, and while I want to look after PhD researchers and have increased their stipend by €3,000, I also thought it was important that we increased our student grants, reduced fees and could extend the rent tax relief to families and invest in literacy. The Deputy and I might have differing views on economic policies but I think supporting companies locating in this country is a good thing. We are going to get to the €25,000. Our stipends are now ahead of the UK, at €22,000, as a result of the budget.

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