Being part of CERN would give Ireland that opportunity to benefit from this transfer of knowledge and technology.

Fourth, CERN membership would allow Ireland to be part of a broader scientific and educational community that is actively engaged in promoting and supporting science education. Dedicated CERN programmes designed to support science education and outreach activities, such as the CERN summer student programme and the teacher programmes that Senator Malcolm Byrne spoke about, help to promote science education for young learners right across Europe.

Finally, CERN membership would significantly raise Ireland's scientific profile, promoting the country as a leader in scientific research and technological innovation, and highlighting its commitment to science education and advancements. This would help to attract global attention to Ireland's scientific and high-tech industries, leading to new investments, new partnerships and collaborations with international organisations. I believe that joining CERN would be a significant benefit to Ireland. It would promote scientific excellence, technological innovation and strong international partnerships. It would allow Irish scientists and engineers to collaborate on cutting-edge research projects and acquire new skills and knowledge.

As for the €300,000 mentioned by the Minister of State as the annual outlay, we would get that back in spades - not just in multiples, but multiples of multiples. I look forward to the deadlines and the dates that the Minister of State has set down. Hopefully, we will be back here when we get our associate membership and then our full membership, and enjoy the benefits in Irish society and among the Irish educational, research and scientific communities.