With the terms of the EU's fifth research framework programme being finalised in the past fortnight, it will provide for research of close to £12 billion over the next four years. Ireland is expected to benefit particularly from a £2.4 billion package to support a "user-friendly information society".
Other areas where the Republic has successfully negotiated increased support is in agriculture, fisheries, forestry and marine ecosystems. The outcome is cause for immense satisfaction, according to the Minister for Science, Technology and Commerce, Mr Noel Treacy.
"This has been a long and difficult process. I'm extremely satisfied with the outcome. We have been able to achieve levels of fun ding for areas of research which have major potential for Ireland's researchers to participate in."
From January 2000 Irish re searchers will be able to compete for EU research funding, Mr Treacy confirmed. When the £180 million package for third-level re search is included, it should place third-level institutions in a better position to win research contracts under the framework programme.
"Improved collaboration between these institutions and industry should put Ireland in a position to make significant gains from this programme. We have already put in place a network of contacts in Ireland to promote this programme and to help any researcher who wants to become involved," Mr Treacy said.
He is due to introduce the fifth framework programme officially at a conference workshop at Clontarf Castle, Dublin, on January 26th.
