A "stop-go, incoherent policy on research" is the damning verdict delivered by Prof Séamus Smyth, chairman of the Conference of Heads of Irish Universities, on the Coalition Government's approach to investment in the sciences.
At a time when multinational companies based here are concerned about future investment and development prospects, because of a lack of student interest in science subjects, the Government should be sending out positive signals about its commitment to scientific research and to the creation of a climate of excellence. During the coming months, Cabinet Ministers will decide on the spending Estimates for 2004. Last year the ESRI advised the Minister for Finance, Mr McCreevy, to borrow for necessary investments in infrastructure, rather than engage in a pro-cyclical policy where spending is cut as the economy slows.
This recommendation was ignored and capital spending across a range of departments was crudely hacked back, with predictable results. Spending under the innovative €630 million Programme for Research in Third-Level Institutions was "paused" by the Department of Education and Science and scientific investment under the National Development Plan was reduced. Considerable damage was done to the Government's long-term plan to create a knowledge-based economy.
For the past six years, the Government has invested substantial amounts of money and energy in seeking to encourage research at third level. It invited Irish scientists to return from foreign laboratories and promised them funding and facilities. The sudden change in approach has sent a very negative message through the scientific community. Apart from the issue of funding, Prof Smyth expressed concern over the absence of a unified science policy. Recommendations advocating such an approach, along with the appointment of a chief scientific adviser to the Government, have drawn no official response.
This Government adopted the correct strategic approach when it embarked upon a scientific research programme designed to create added value in a knowledge-based economy. Past years of spectacular economic growth were built on an educated and flexible workforce. If we are to make further progress, capital investment must extend beyond transport and information systems into areas of creativity and of added value. That will require careful positioning and coherent planning. Above all, it will require consistency in funding.