Eileen Lynch (Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for being here to discuss this vital motion, which I fully support. I wish to focus on the call on the Government to prioritise and fund a national equipment renewal programme across Ireland's further and higher education institutions.

As a nation we have long prided ourselves on being a knowledge economy and placing innovation, research and education at the heart of national development. This cannot continue to be the case if our students and researchers are working with equipment that is outdated and sometimes unfit for purpose. In my alma mater, University College Cork, exceptional work is being carried out in the Environmental Research Institute. The institute is leading critical research on climate change adaptation and biodiversity loss. However, many of its laboratories rely on analytical equipment that is more than 15 years old. Similarly, the Munster Technological University's Nimbus Research Centre, which is a national leader in smart technologies, is facing certain constraints due to ageing equipment. These are not just local losses but national missed prospects. Investment in equipment renewal is a strategic investment in our future. A modern equipment base is essential to support our growing innovation economy, attract and retain global talent and ensure our graduates are industry-ready. Without it, I believe we risk falling behind in vital areas like renewable energy, AI, biotechnology and sustainable agriculture. We currently have a significant opportunity in Ireland. Our participation in Horizon Europe and increased international collaboration means the lack of modern infrastructure puts our researchers at a disadvantage before a project begins. I strongly believe we must consult institutional leaders to set up the funding and we should have a dedicated stream for institutions outside Dublin, recognising the extraordinary research potential across our regions, particularly in Cork. My apologies, Chair, and I thank the Minister.