Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 478: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the progress made to date in developing a programme of targeted bursaries, in order to increase participation in key engineering programmes at third level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41684/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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The rationale for the introduction of bursaries would be to address a perceived lack of interest on the part of students in undertaking programmes in particular disciplines. Some €2.5 million per annum is allocated to the Discover Science and Engineering programme, funded by Forfás, to promote the take up of science, engineering and technology in schools and colleges, as well as an awareness of the importance of these disciplines in wider society. The latest figures from the CAO show that the number of people accepting third level places on engineering courses this year increased by almost 21% on 2008/09. In addition, the number of computing and science place acceptances are up more than 25%. This suggests that students are recognising the value of pursuing such disciplines. The introduction of targeted bursaries will be considered further in the light of industry views on the significant increases in enrolments that have taken place this year.

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 479: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the progress made to date in expanding summer schools in science and engineering; the additional funding made available to each summer school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41685/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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The Government's Framework for Building Ireland's Smart Economy committed to the expansion of summer schools in science and engineering with an emphasis on innovation and commercialisation. As the Deputy may be aware, there is currently a substantial calendar of summer schools in place across higher education institutions, targeted at both second-level and primary level pupils. Summer schools in the area of science and engineering cover a wide variety of activities, ranging from hands-on experimental work, science theory and career advice. These are designed to stimulate interest in science and engineering courses generally. The scope, including funding implications, for incorporating or expanding innovation and commercialisation activities within summer school programmes is being explored by my Department with the Higher Education Authority.

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 480: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if the winners of the BT young scientist of the year award will be linked with third level institutions and companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41696/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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The BT young scientist competition has been expanded this year to include a new business programme that will provide selected students with the opportunity to develop the business knowledge they need to turn their innovative ideas into commercial opportunities. The new programme creates a forum for 40 students to be mentored by leading executives and professionals from BT, IBM, Intel, Microsoft, Bombardier, Bord Gáis Éireann, IP Innovations, UCD, TCD, Engineers Ireland and Bank of Ireland. The students will gain practical business knowledge from the mentors through a series of workshops and master-classes on subjects such as: protecting intellectual capital, global marketing, international business, stakeholder communications, innovation principles, and business strategy. In addition, appropriate arrangements are being made so that summer placements in higher education institutions will be available for the top performing students in the competition next year.