Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I join with the other members in wishing everybody a happy Christmas and I thank them for their help, support and co-operation throughout the year. I rise to mention the calibre of science graduates. In 2016, Ireland was ranked tenth overall in terms of quality scientific research. Ireland has jumped 26 places over a 13-year period, the first time it has risen so quickly through the world rankings. In terms of global scientific rankings, we lie second in the agrifood sector, fifth for chemistry and sixth for medical research. It is wonderful that the standard of science education and the calibre of science graduates here is so high, which has resulted in us being highly ranked in world terms. Overall, Ireland is the seventh most innovative country in the world, which is wonderful. All this helps with inward investment and job creation. The situation will encourage companies to invest here and locate their businesses in Ireland.