Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 521: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the position regarding the third level review (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37370/10]

Conor Lenihan (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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I understand that the Deputy's question refers to the recently announced Research Prioritisation Exercise for which my Department has lead policy responsibility. The purpose of this exercise is to identify priority areas of focus for Irish Research for the future. It will aim to identify priority areas, or approaches to tackling national challenges, that we face and to concentrate future investment in publicly funded Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) in those areas. The project will take account of research areas where Ireland has built significant strength to date and particularly areas that have the greatest potential to deliver sustainable economic return through enterprise development, employment creation, or indeed, quality of life.

A High Level Steering Group has been established to oversee the project. This Steering Group draws on national and international expertise in the private and public sectors, as well as senior Government officials, and is expected to submit its final report to Government within a year. The Steering Group will ensure that, in conducting its work, there is an appropriate level of engagement and consultation with all interested stakeholders.