Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) has made impressive progress towards developing a strong research capability in Ireland in biotechnology and information and communications technologies (ICT), an evaluation report has stated.

The report by an international review panel, commissioned by Fás, found that it was essential that the Government continue taking a long-term strategic view of funding for research.

It said SFI, which was established in 2001, should not extend its focus beyond biotechnology and ICT without the provision of additional funding.

The panel recommended SFI should continue with its policy of having research excellence as the basis for awards. This policy was "the single most important factor in its success and it is of paramount importance that awards continue to be decided on the criterion of research excellence". It also recommended that the commercialisation of SFI-funded research should be supported.

The Minister for Enterprise, Micheál Martin, said supporting SCI would continue to be a Government priority.