The Irish Universities Association expresses its support for the Government’s new research and innovation strategy. IUA Research Vice Presidents Group Chair, Professor Orla Feely[1] said: “I welcome the publication of the strategy today. It sets out a strong ambition for Ireland as a leader in innovation, underpinned by the excellence, talent and impact of Irish research. The commitment to increasing public and private investment in research is particularly welcome.”
The new strategy aims to reach a target of 2.5% of GDP spent on research by 2020, across the public and private sectors. The majority of public sector research is carried out by universities. IUA Chief Executive, Ned Costello[2] said: “the plans to increase postgraduate enrolments by 30% and to develop an effective careers plan for researchers puts the spotlight on talent. This will benefit both research and education and ensure a flow of critical skills in to the wider economy and society.”
The strategy also includes plans for a successor to the Programme for Research in Third Level Institutions to include investment in the creation of new, and the maintenance and upgrading of existing, facilities and equipment. A new Programme of Funding for Frontier Research will be also introduced. “These initiatives will support a wider spectrum of research and better equip Ireland to find solutions to the complex challenges facing us”, Ned Costello said.
The strategy emphasises the importance of collaboration. Professor Feely said: “the success of the strategy will rely on higher education and enterprise mobilising around it in an agile and co-ordinated manner, in tandem with government and its agencies. The universities look forward to working with all of those involved as we seek to build on our success to date and deliver excellent research and innovation, with impact nationally and globally”.
Ends
IUA
8 December 2015
Notes for Editors:
[1] Professor Orla Feely is Chair of the IUA Vice Presidents and Deans of Research Committee and Vice President for Research, Innovation and Impact at University College Dublin.
[2] Ned Costello is Chief Executive of the IUA and Director of Research and Innovation.