Paschal Donohoe (Fine Gael)

One of the main topics discussed so far on the Order of Business has been the state of the economy and the impact the downturn is having on manufacturing jobs nationwide, especially in County Wicklow today. I join my colleagues in asking for a debate on our economic future. One likely response to the debate will stress the need for the Government to continue to invest in research, development and innovation.

A study published some weeks ago by University College Cork stated that, in spite of the €600 million spent under the previous national development plan and the €1.1 billion to be spent under the current national development plan on research and development through the higher education institutions, no evidence exists of a link between expenditure and actual commercial innovation. Although we will spend considerable time ascertaining how we can develop a more skilled and innovative economy, the study states our approach is not working. According to those who work in the business, the €1.1 billion is not being spent in the correct way. Our debate should focus on the manner in which we stimulate economic innovation and ensure taxpayers' money is spent correctly to deliver in this regard.